Since the return to constitutional rule, Ghana has intensified her efforts to promote human rights. However, there are several challenges with the promotion of property rights, especially regarding land ownership (International Trade: Nations, 2019). Land guards are the nightmare of landowners in Ghana, especially in the Greater Accra Region.

Landguardism, also known as land litigation, is prevalent in Ghana. It refers to the illegal occupation and control of land by individuals or groups who use force, intimidation, or fraudulent means to claim ownership of the land.

This issue often stems from weak land governance systems, corruption, and a lack of legal protection for marginalized group. As a result, countless families lose their homes and livelihoods, leading to increased widespread in recent years, causing conflicts and disputes among communities and hindering economic development in the country.

Rapid Urbanization and population growth have led to increased demand for housing and commercial space, putting pressure on the available land. This has created a lucrative market for land grabbers who exploit the situation to illegally acquire and sell land. Additionally, Ghana’s lack of a comprehensive and efficient land tenure system has made it easier for land guards to manipulate and exploit loopholes in the system for their gain.

The history of land guarding is crucial as it provides insights into this issue’s root causes and patterns. Colonialism and the introduction of Western land tenure systems in Ghana played a significant role in the emergence of land guarding. The imposition of new laws and regulations disrupted traditional land ownership practices. The history is that local communities, feeling the need to protect their land from encroachment, started forming groups of individuals known as land guards. These land guards often resorted to violence and intimidation tactics, leading to an escalation of tensions and increased insecurity in land disputes. This escalation of violence and intimidation further complicated the already complex issue of land rights, making it even more difficult to find peaceful resolutions and perpetuating the cycle of conflict and conflict.

The legacy of colonial rule and the subsequent independence of Ghana did little to address the underlying issues of land ownership and land disputes. Instead, the post-colonial era witnessed a continuation of the same patterns of land grabbing and encroachment that had been established during the colonial period.

Land Guard Syndrome is a psychological disorder characterized by beliefs that one’s property is under threat from intruders or encroachers. This syndrome is significant as it can lead individuals to take extreme measures to protect their land. It is significant to note that Land Guard Syndrome is not a recognized formal medical diagnosis but rather a term used to describe the particular set of symptoms and behaviors displayed by those who suffer from this condition. While it is difficult to determine the exact number of individuals who suffer from the Land Guard Syndrome. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it can be more common in areas with higher rates of property crime or in places where land ownership is highly valued.

Real estate and land guards in Ghana have become pressing issues that require attention. With the increasing demand for property and the limited availability of land, conflicts, and disputes over ownership have become common. Landguardism has further exacerbated these problems.

One major factor is the lack of a comprehensive land registration and documentation system, which creates ambiguity and creates room for multiple claims to the same piece of land. Additionally, poverty and unemployment contribute to the rise of Landguardism, since individuals see it as an opportunity for financial gain. The impacts of this menace are far-reaching, affecting not only individuals and families who are forcefully evicted from their homes but also the overall economy and investment climate in the country.

To tackle this issue, the government should prioritize land reform initiatives such as the implementation of a transparent and efficient land registration system, as well as create employment opportunities to discourage individuals from engaging in land guard activities.

Some of the negative impacts of Landguardism on real estate transactions are decreased investor confidence due to the uncertainty and risk associated with land ownership, and increased costs for developers and property owners as they may have to pay bribes or hire security to protect their land.

Additionally, Landguardism can lead to disrupted development projects and construction delays which further increases costs for developers. This can hinder economic growth and urban development in the affected areas.

Furthermore, Landguardism resulting in legal disputes and litigation, does not only cause lengthy legal battles but also adds significant expenses to real estate transactions, deterring potential investors and limiting the overall growth potential of the real estate market. Ultimately, the negative consequences of Landguardism on real estate transactions can have far-reaching implications for the economic and social well-being of a region.

At Housing in Ghana magazine, we’re committed to providing you with the knowledge and resources you need to succeed in Ghana’s real estate market. Stay tuned for more expert insights, tips, and advice to help you navigate your real estate journey with confidence.

Interested in buying, selling or renting a property, visit Housing Fair Online for all your real estate needs.