By Ernest Nutsugah
Accra, March 6, GNA – Madam Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, the Deputy Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources, has reiterated government’s commitment to developing sustainable policies and regulations to guide infrastructure delivery in the country.
In a speech read on her behalf, she noted that the Ministry would integrate Facility Management into all stages of project planning and development to prolong the lifespan of public infrastructure.
Ms Tetteh-Agbotui made this known at a stakeholder forum organised by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Ghana Chapter in Accra on Wednesday, which highlighted the importance of Facility Management in Ghana’s socio-economic development.
The discussion, among other objectives, sought to foster collaboration among built environment professionals, and build a strong partnership between academia and industry.
It brought together engineers, surveyors, architects, planners, tutors, policymakers, and industry leaders on the theme: “Facility Management as a Strategic Partner in Business Continuity, Efficiency and Nation Building.”
The Deputy Minister described Facility Management as a critical component of infrastructure projects, urging managers to continue to serve as catalysts for transformation.
She said the Ministry would continue to deliver public infrastructure that met the needs of citizens, touching on discussions being held with IFMA Ghana to explore how Facility Management could enhance the performance and sustainability of government infrastructure.
“We firmly believe that effective collaboration with IFMA and other stakeholders will significantly reduce asset decay, improve operational efficiency across government infrastructure, and enhance service outcomes for citizens,” she stated.
Ms Tetteh-Agbotui acknowledged the role of Facility Managers, stressing that they must be involved in planning, design, construction, commissioning, and long-term asset management.
“Facility Management is no longer just about maintenance, cleaning, or space allocation…In a rapidly changing environment, marked by climate concerns, and emerging risks, organisations that survive and thrive are those that prioritise business continuity and operational excellence. And at the centre of that resilience is effective Facility Management,” she noted.
Mr Sampson Opare, President, IFMA Ghana Chapter, said beyond proper design and construction, it was essential for Facility Managers to sustainably operate and manage private and public facilities throughout their lifecycle.
“When hospitals function seamlessly, when schools operate efficiently, when public offices deliver uninterrupted services, when commercial spaces remain safe, sustainable and productive, facility management is at work,” he stated.
“As IFMA Ghana Chapter, our commitment is to elevate standards, promote certification and research, advocate policy recognition, and strengthen partnerships both locally and globally.”
Mr Opare announced that the Association would champion the development of a national framework to position the profession as “a strategic enabler of Ghana’s growth.”
Experts at the forum touched on professional training, research, mentorship, collaboration with industry players, public sensitisation, and enforcement of legal regimes and standards to advance the practice of Facility Management in the country.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe