Religious Affairs Ministry begins national database of shrines, religious sites

The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs in Ghana is establishing a national database of shrines, religious sites, and their operators. This initiative aims to enhance regulation, planning, and recognition of traditional and faith-based institutions in the country. Chief Registrar Baafi Nsiah called on traditional authorities and practitioners to assist in the documentation process to ensure accurate data collection.

The exercise is taking place in the Ashanti Region and seeks to determine the number of shrines and religious sites across Ghana. The database will also identify historically and culturally significant sites for potential development as tourist attractions, promoting cultural heritage and education. Beyond documentation, the Ministry plans to collaborate with traditional authorities, tourism stakeholders, and local assemblies to protect and preserve these sacred spaces while integrating them into the local tourism economy.

The event, organized by the Trado-Afrikan Faith Healers Association, saw hundreds of traditional healers register, obtain licenses, and receive training on regulatory requirements and best practices. Dr. Yakubu T. Yusuf, CEO of the Traditional Medicine Practice Council, emphasized the importance of formalizing and regulating the traditional healing sector for public health protection, eliminating unqualified practitioners, and integrating traditional medicine into Ghana's healthcare system.

Practitioners who have not yet registered are encouraged to participate in the ongoing exercise to formalize their practices.