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The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) has called on Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to designate specific areas as auto zones to regulate the sale of used vehicles and promote orderly urban development. Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, Chairman of NDPC, emphasized the need for structured planning to address the growing challenges of urban congestion and unregulated commercial activities during a strategic stakeholder consultation in the Ashanti Region.
Dr. Thompson expressed concern over the increasing practice of automobile dealers occupying unplanned spaces across cities, noting that this contributes to congestion, environmental degradation, and inefficient land use.
He explained that designated auto zones would help streamline commercial activities, improve regulation, and create a more organized environment for businesses and the public. According to him, such zones would also enhance job creation by formalizing the sector and attracting investment into well-planned commercial hubs.
“Land remains a limited resource and must be managed strategically,” Dr. Thompson reiterated, adding that proper spatial planning is essential for sustainable urban growth and preventing long-term development challenges.
He emphasized that the creation of auto zones would not only improve the urban landscape but also contribute to the urban economy.
Dr. Thompson’s call for designated auto zones is part of the NDPC’s broader efforts to promote sustainable urban development and improve the quality of life for Ghanaians. The Commission recognizes that the current urban planning challenges require innovative solutions and collaborative efforts from all stakeholders.
On her part, Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, Director-General of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), stressed the importance of aligning district, regional, and national development plans into a single coordinated framework to ensure effective implementation.
She added that development planning must be integrated and responsive, noting that financial inflows are often released in phases, requiring flexibility and strategic decision-making in project selection.
Dr. Smock Amoah further highlighted that projects must be prioritized based on their impact, urging planners to focus on initiatives that address critical needs and benefit the largest number of people. She emphasized the importance of completing ongoing projects, noting that many remain near completion but are yet to deliver value to communities.
The Director-General called for a results-oriented approach to planning, stressing that completing such projects would maximize investments, improve livelihoods, and strengthen public confidence in development efforts. She noted that the NDPC is committed to supporting MMDAs in achieving their development goals and promoting sustainable urban development.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Frank Amoakohene, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention to address growing urban congestion and unregulated commercial activities in the region.
He assured that the Regional Coordinating Council would work closely with assemblies to implement the policy effectively, stating that creating designated auto zones would contribute to a cleaner, more organized urban environment and promote sustainable economic activities across the region.
The NDPC’s call for designated auto zones has been welcomed by stakeholders, who see it as a step in the right direction towards addressing urban planning challenges in Ghana.
The Commission’s efforts are expected to promote sustainable urban development, improve the quality of life for Ghanaians, and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
