The government of Ghana has announced plans to investigate the National Cathedral project and explore changing its current site as part of measures to address public concerns.
This decision follows recommendations by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to audit the project and investigate potential misuse of public funds. Speaking at the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), on Sunday, January 12, President John Dramani Mahama reiterated the government’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
The service attracted key figures, including Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, First Lady Lordina Mahama, and prominent clergy such as Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams and Bishop Charles Agyinasare. The President urged unity among Christians to ensure the success of the project without further reliance on public funding. He criticized the current $400 million cost estimate, citing it as unsustainable, and proposed rethinking the site and overall budget for a more achievable outcome.
President Mahama referenced the $30 million National Ecumenical Centre in Abuja, Nigeria, as an example of a more cost-effective approach. “I believe we can reach a more reasonable figure for achieving such a project, and together, we can raise the funding for it,” he said. The President added that relocating the project from its current site could further reduce costs and address some of the controversies surrounding its prioritization.
The National Cathedral project, initially framed as a personal vow by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, has been heavily criticized for its use of over $58 million in public funds, with an additional $450 million required for completion. President Mahama emphasized the importance of prioritizing resources for education and youth development while reaffirming his commitment to unity and progress. He stressed that as President for all Ghanaians, the government would ensure fiscal responsibility and equitable development.
