Residents of Juaboso in the Western North Region are raising concerns over the increasing cost of rent and the growing cost of living, describing the situation as a major burden on households and low-income earners.
According to residents, accommodation prices in the municipality have increased significantly over the past few years, making it difficult for many families, workers and traders to secure decent housing.
Many residents say the annual rent for a single room now ranges between GH¢2,000 and GH¢2,500, compared to lower rates in previous years. They further claim that some landlords are demanding two years’ rent in advance, placing additional financial pressure on tenants.
For many households, the challenge extends beyond rent.
Residents say the rising cost of food, transportation and other essential goods, coupled with stagnant incomes, has made it increasingly difficult to meet daily needs.
“We are struggling to survive. Everything is expensive now and rent continues to increase. Many people simply cannot afford to pay two years’ rent in advance,” a resident told 3News.
Some residents attribute the sharp increase in accommodation costs to the growing presence of illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, in and around the municipality.
According to them, the influx of miners and people connected to the mining industry has increased demand for housing, pushing landlords to raise rent charges.
Residents claim that many of the newcomers can afford to pay higher rents, encouraging some property owners to adjust prices beyond the reach of ordinary residents.
Others allege that landlords sometimes prefer renting their properties to galamsey operators and workers who are willing to pay more when local tenants are unable to meet the new rent demands.
The situation, residents say, is gradually making affordable accommodation difficult to find in the municipality.
While acknowledging the right of landlords to earn income from their properties, residents are appealing for moderation in rent reviews and greater consideration of the economic difficulties facing ordinary citizens.
They are also calling on relevant authorities and stakeholders to explore measures that could help address the housing challenges confronting residents in Juaboso.
By Emmanuel Sowah
