Into Africa Accra’s housing crisis is forcing young people to delay the traditional milestones of adulthood.
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Apr 3, 2025 Naa Laryea, a software engineer from Accra, shares her struggles with apartment hunting in a city facing a severe housing crisis. She reveals the absurdity of landlords demanding upfront rent for one to two years and the challenges this creates for young Ghanaians. Joining her is Nelson C.J., a West Africa correspondent, who discusses systemic issues and the advocacy efforts of the National Tenants Union in pushing for affordable housing. The conversation also highlights how investing in small cities could alleviate the pressure on major urban centers like Accra.
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Apartment Hunting in Accra
- Naa Laryea, a software engineer in Accra, finds apartment hunting very anxiety-inducing.
- She describes the process, which involves physically searching or using agents, as unregulated and stressful, especially when time is limited.
The Role of Agents
- Agents, unaffiliated with apartments, scout and advertise rentals on social media, charging fees for viewings and commissions upon rental.
- This system adds extra costs for renters.
Exorbitant Rent Demands
- Landlords in Accra often demand one or two years' rent upfront, exceeding the recommended six months.
- This practice aims to secure income and recoup building costs, making it difficult for young people to afford housing.