Resource engineers for post-permit supervision – IET Ghana to MMDAs - Institution of Engineering and Technology Ghana

President of the Institution of Engineering and Technology, Ghana (IET Ghana), Wonder Davor, has urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to adequately equip their Housing and Works Departments to effectively supervise construction projects after building permits have been issued. His remarks come after the collapse of a building used by worshippers near the Experimental D/A School in Accra Newtown on Sunday, March 29, which resulted in three fatalities and left 20 others injured.

Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Monday, March 30, 2026, he explained that many Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) do not give enough attention to post-permit supervision, largely due to a lack of logistics and technical resources for engineers in the field.

He noted that without proper tools and transportation, engineers are unable to effectively inspect projects and enforce building standards after permits have been issued.

He therefore urged MMDAs to invest in the necessary equipment and strengthen their works departments to improve monitoring of construction activities.

“Let me say this to all assemblies: when you take money from a developer, ensure that engineers are supported to supervise the project. You may be surprised to find that assemblies lack even basic vehicles needed for inspections. They don’t even have tools like a rebound hammer to test concrete strength.

“They also lack equipment to check the size and strength of steel reinforcements within structures. So after collecting permit fees, assemblies must resource their works departments accordingly. Unfortunately, many do not prioritise supervision after permits are issued,” he said.