Prof. Kasim Kasanga, Minister of Lands and Forestry-designate, on Tuesday said the government owed 100 billion cedis as compensation for parcels of land it took over the years.

The sooner a decision was taken on the issue, the better it would be for national development and harmony, Prof. Kasanga, who is a Land Economist, was answering questions at a public hearing of the Appointment Committee of Parliament, which is vetting him for the post.

"The options are many, we could return unused land to owners, we could give out shares in some projects which stand on such lands and others", he said.

He said the lack of a potent land policy had brought about near anarchy in land sale and use. "We need to sit down as a people and look at the various options available to us and decide on a viable one to stem the confusion, lack of confidence and trust in the land delivery system.

"The immediate step I intend to take when I am approved is to harmonise the various laws and regulations on land sale and use with the realities, thoughts, wishes and aspirations of Ghanaians."

Prof. Kasanga said the old land policy introduced by the former government would serve as the foundation for a more vibrant policy. He defended the government's afforestation programme, saying such initiatives would yield fruits in future.

He said he opted for a new life in politics rather than continue teaching, because, "As a citizen of Ghana I could not have turned down the President's offer. I also believe that it is better for someone who knows the terrain well to travel the road.

"When I was given the offer, my friends said, 'you have been criticising government policies over the years, go take the offer. It is now our turn to criticise you."

He said nationalisation of lands had never worked in the country because it was against the principle of the customs and traditions of the people and the spirit of the constitution.

Prof. Kasanga hails from Issa in the Upper West Region and is married with three children. He gained full professorial status in Land Economy at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology last year.

The Committee also vetted Mr Prince Imoro Andani, Northern Regional Minister designate. Mr Andani told the committee that he would encourage dialogue among the ethnic groups in the region to erase the mistrust that led to clashes. He called for more resources for the region to turn around its fortunes.