Rental Scheme should be weaned off political interference [Article]

The Rental Scheme should be freed from political interference [Article]

One good friend of mine who is older than my brother told me that he had to cough up GH¢12,000 as rent money to secure a two-bedroom house. He is a professional teacher. As a national service man at the time, I was shocked. I imagine that I can save my allowance or allocate my future salary to meet this amount. Some of us, who are trying to get a foothold in life, have to explore ways to earn a lot of money to rent a comfortable room.

On February 3, 2023, we were given the privilege to cover the Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. This is the launch of the National Rental Assistance Scheme (NRAS). Hosted by the Ministry of Works and Housing, several political figures took turns to comment on NRAS.

One thing worth mentioning is the allocation of 30 million Ghana cedis as start-up funds to complete the first pilot phase of the scheme in five regions. The reason is that the five regions according to the research have a population that faces challenges with accommodation.

The Scheme Manager, Richard Acheampong indicated that beneficiaries of the scheme will be allowed access to a threshold of GHc1,500 as rental payments.

When explaining how the scheme works, he noted that the beneficiary after meeting the statutory requirements of being 18 years of age and above, proof of citizenship, and employment, must then determine the type of room to rent.

He informed that the Scheme was later issued with money. He pays back with interest less than that amount.

Cash paid with interest into the Scheme is then given to other beneficiaries. So, the funds in total will roll. The Vice President’s heartwarming statement caught my attention. That is, the Scheme will be devoid of political interference.

It is very important, to pay attention to political interference where those who benefit will be bypassed and given to others just because they have close ties to big government. Some may want to downsize and get a loan and not pay it back. I admit that, every initiative has its own challenges.

However, there is a need to identify gaps in front and be alert. When the project begins, the youth must prioritize youth with genuine needs who are not politically connected.

All protocols set by the Scheme must be strictly followed. Good government policies have failed in the middle of delivery. I think it is a policy to provide loans for good rent and should not follow the trajectory of inconsistencies.

In the same scenario, I remember when the Nations Builders Corps (NABCo), a temporary move to join the youth while they are working for permanent employment. The trainees threatened to protest against the government for non-payment of allowances.

NABCo Public Relations Officer Naa Techie said, “the indication is that NABCo trainees have been left in limbo. NABCo Trainees have been exposed to constant public ridicule, and have also suffered severe hardships and starved to death”. This should not be said about NRAS.

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