Government will not use state resources to finance National Cathedral - Religious Affairs Minister

Ghana's Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, met with the Christian Council of Ghana to discuss the National Cathedral, sanitation, education, healthcare and religious tolerance. Ayariga made clear that the government would not finance the National Cathedral using state resources, insisting the project should be privately funded through church initiatives and donor contributions.

The minister recognized the cathedral's significance but believed public funds should not be the burden. Ayariga also emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between government and faith-based organizations to address Ghana's sanitation challenges, calling for the revival of the National Sanitation Day initiative with the church's active participation.

He acknowledged the contributions of mission schools and faith-based organizations to Ghana's education and healthcare sectors, citing the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) as an example. On religious tolerance, Ayariga urged peaceful coexistence among Ghana's diverse faith communities, stating that religious harmony is vital for national development.

The Christian Council of Ghana's General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Cyril Fayose, welcomed the minister's stance on the National Cathedral but requested the government's blessing for the project. Fayose assured the government that Christians are prepared to mobilize resources locally and internationally to support the cathedral's construction.

The council is willing to work with the Ministry on sanitation through its Environmental Care and Cleanliness Programme, having previously developed plans to collaborate on the National Sanitation Day. The engagement also addressed the Council's upcoming programs, including its Second Ecumenical Convention in September 2026 and preparations for its centenary celebration marking 100 years of service and advocacy.