Ghana Building Code is “major milestone for the country”

Ghana‘s first Building Code marks a pivotal moment for architecture and construction in the country, says Ghanian British architect David Adjaye.

Adjaye welcomed the first official Ghana Building Code, which the Ghanaian government introduced at the end of last year, saying that it was a “highly significant step”. The Ghanian British architect, who was knighted for services to architecture in 2017, said there was a sense of urgency around the need for a standardised set of practices for architecture and construction in Ghana.

He believes the introduction of building codes is a pivotal moment. “Creating safer, more accessible buildings, residences and infrastructure within Ghana is paramount,” he explained. “One such example is the provision of earthquake resistant construction technology and practice.”

Ghana gained independence from British colonial rule in 1957. A draft code was introduced in the 1970s to replace outdated regulations from the 1960s, and National Building Regulations were ratified in 1996. The Ghana Building Code is a modified adoption of the International Building Code. The 1,700 page document was created by the Ghana Standards Authority for the ministry of works and housing.

“The implementation of the new Building Codes will most certainly establish standardised regulations on quality, durability and materiality within construction practice,” said Adjaye.