The Ghana Institution of Surveyors has urged the government to prioritise local professionals in land surveying under foreign-funded contracts, warning of potential national security risks.

President of the institution, Emmanuel Cobbold, cautioned that allowing foreign firms to undertake sensitive surveying work could have long-term implications for the country.

“Allowing foreign firms to handle such sensitive work could have long-term implications,” he stated, stressing the need to protect critical national data.

Speaking at an honorary membership ceremony organised by the institution, Cobbold emphasised the importance of prioritising local expertise in all surveying-related contracts. He noted that land data and boundary mapping are essential to national planning and security.

Land surveying plays a vital role in defining property boundaries and managing land information, making it central to governance, development planning, and dispute resolution.

The event also highlighted broader challenges in the land sector, including the need to sanitise boundary demarcation systems and reduce land disputes.

Also speaking at the event, former Chief Executive of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Joyce Aryee, underscored the importance of engaging certified professionals to ensure accuracy and credibility in land documentation.

“It is important to engage certified surveyors to ensure accuracy and credibility in land documentation,” she said.

Meanwhile, former Education Minister, Yaw Osei Adutwum, called for the introduction of chartered cities to give communities greater control over their development.

“Chartered cities can improve infrastructure, increase property values, and enhance quality of life without placing additional burden on government,” he noted.