Ghana’s newly elected President, John Mahama, has announced plans to investigate the controversial $400 million National Cathedral project initiated by his predecessor, Nana Akufo-Addo. The project, intended as a religious landmark in Accra, has faced criticism over allegations of financial mismanagement and the use of public funds.
Despite initial claims that the cathedral would be privately funded, reports indicate that approximately $58 million in public funds have already been spent, with little progress beyond the excavation stage.
This has led to public outcry, especially given Ghana’s current economic challenges, including high inflation and reliance on an International Monetary Fund bailout.
President Mahama has pledged to initiate a thorough investigation into the project’s finances and has suggested reassessing its scale and cost. He emphasized that any future decisions regarding the cathedral will prioritize accountability and the national interest.
In line with efforts to curb wasteful expenditure, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson has announced an immediate halt to further public funding for the cathedral. The project’s suspension reflects the government’s commitment to addressing public concerns and ensuring fiscal responsibility.
The National Cathedral was envisioned to include a 5,000-seat auditorium, chapels, a baptistery, a music school, an art gallery, and a museum dedicated to the Bible. However, its future now remains uncertain as the government moves forward with its investigation.
