The Rent Control Department has launched a new digital platform to modernize service delivery and improve access to rental services across Ghana. In a statement, it was noted that the initiative marks a significant milestone in the government’s digital transformation agenda.
Dr. Prince Hamid Armah, Deputy Minister of Works and Housing, described the launch as a pivotal moment in the country’s efforts toward modernization, efficiency, and inclusivity in the rental housing sector. He highlighted the crucial role of the Rent Control Department in promoting peaceful relations between landlords and tenants, ensuring every Ghanaian’s access to safe, adequate, and affordable housing, as mandated by the Rent Act 220.
Dr. Armah recalled the inefficiencies of the department’s manual processes, which led to delays and frustrations. He cited a key moment on July 15, 2020, when Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia visited the Rent Control Department and observed long queues of citizens struggling to access essential services. Many people had traveled from far distances only to face outdated and slow procedures that did not align with the government’s vision for a modern Ghana.
“It was then that the Vice President made a promise, one that would turn frustration into progress, inefficiency into empowerment. He pledged to digitize the operations of the Rent Control Department, making it more accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of the people,” Dr. Armah said.
With the new digital platform, the Rent Control Department has now transformed into a digitally equipped institution. Dr. Armah announced that Phase I of the project successfully digitized 15 offices across 11 regions, enabling landlords and tenants to access services remotely from major cities and towns, including Accra, Tema, Cape Coast, Techiman, Sunyani, and Takoradi. This integration ensures equitable access to rental services across the country.
“We are making history today, not just by embracing digital tools but by fundamentally reshaping how Ghanaians experience public services,” Dr. Armah emphasized. He explained that the digital platform eliminates the need for in-person visits, allowing landlords and tenants to conduct essential tasks—such as registering properties, filing complaints, or resolving disputes—online, from the comfort of their homes or offices.
The platform also introduces automated processes for registering properties, handling complaints, and managing paperwork electronically. New features, such as digital tenancy agreements, unique digital property addresses, and online advertising of rental properties, aim to simplify the rental process and increase market transparency.
Mr. Kwesi Essel, Business Development Manager of SuperTech Limited, the company responsible for developing the digital platform, praised the groundbreaking nature of the project. He explained that the system enables Rent Control officers to efficiently log and manage complaints, maintain comprehensive databases, and generate advanced reports. For property owners, the portal offers an easy-to-use interface to manage properties, submit applications, and advertise vacancies.
“For the public, this system opens up a world of convenience at your fingertips,” Mr. Essel remarked.
Chief Rent Manager, Mr. Twum Ampofo, emphasized that the digital transformation would close service gaps and improve service delivery. He encouraged Ghanaians to embrace this digital future, noting that the government also launched a new website, “rentcontrol.mwh.gov.gh,” as a one-stop portal for all rent-related transactions.
