Abstract

Background: Affordable housing projects (AHPs) in Ghana have faced significant challenges, resulting in frequent project failures. This research identified key factors contributing to these failures and proposed a model to guide government institutions and stakeholders in improving AHP execution.

Methods: A qualitative case study approach, grounded in social constructivism, was used to analyse six AHPs across Ghana: Wa, Asokore Mampong, Cape Coast, Kpone, Koforidua, and Saglemi. These cases were selected for their representativeness and ability to provide insights into management challenges. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and document reviews, and were analysed thematically. Data saturation was achieved when no new themes emerged.

Findings: The study revealed project management deficiencies that contributed to AHP failures, including poor stakeholder engagement, insufficient funding, political interference, and lack of skilled contractors. The results supported established frameworks on managing agency risks and stakeholder engagement for successful public projects.

Implications: This study introduced the Integrated Sustainable Affordable Housing (ISAH) Framework to address affordable housing challenges in developing countries. The ISAH Framework provided a structured approach to improve the planning, implementation, and long-term sustainability of housing projects. It also offered empirical evidence supporting the application of agency theory in managing public projects, with relevance for other developing countries.

Conclusion: The study provided insights into the project management challenges causing AHP failures in Ghana, validating the connection between management weaknesses and public project failures. Policy recommendations were offered to strengthen management competencies and institutional capacity, improving affordable housing outcomes in Ghana and similar contexts. The research highlighted gaps in project management practices and offered directions for future research and policy development.