“Spending $400M on a Cathedral Amid Ghana’s Struggles is Senseless – Mahama”
President John Dramani Mahama has voiced strong reservations about the ongoing construction of the National Cathedral, criticizing its $400 million price tag as unjustifiable given Ghana’s current economic challenges.
He described the project as a misguided use of resources, especially during a period of significant financial strain for the country.
Speaking at a Christian National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service held on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), President Mahama called for a reassessment of the project’s future. He also suggested exploring alternative approaches to achieve such a national monument without burdening the public purse.
The President drew comparisons between Ghana’s National Cathedral project and Nigeria’s National Ecumenical Center in Abuja, highlighting the stark difference in cost.
According to President Mahama, the Ecumenical Center, which serves as a place of worship for all Christian denominations in Nigeria, was constructed for $30 million—just a fraction of the proposed $400 million budget for Ghana’s cathedral.
“Regarding the future of the National Cathedral project, I believe that as Christians, we must reach a consensus on how to achieve such an initiative without resorting to public funds. This project must be completed at a reasonable cost.
“In Ghana’s current economic circumstances, it makes no sense to pursue this project at an exorbitant cost of $400 million. I am informed that the National Ecumenical Center in Abuja, used by all Christian denominations in Nigeria, was built for $30 million,” he stated.
The National Cathedral, initially proposed during the administration of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, was envisioned as a monumental Christian worship center in Ghana.
The project, however, has faced persistent challenges, including funding shortfalls, construction delays, and widespread criticism.
Critics argue that using state funds for the cathedral contradicts the principles of secular governance and the separation of religion from state affairs.
Freedom Lavoe/ Ahotoronline.com
