Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has indicated his willingness to explore alternative funding avenues for the National Cathedral provided the stalled project secures the backing of President John Dramani Mahama and the Christian community.
Speaking before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, 2026, Mahama Ayariga clarified that while he harbors serious misgivings about how the project was handled previously, he does not oppose the underlying concept of a national place of worship given Ghana’s deeply religious character.
”I don’t think there is anything wrong with the idea, but I think it was a good idea that was badly implemented,” he stated, noting that he also held reservations regarding the chosen location for the edifice.
Addressing ongoing debates over the substantial public resources already invested in the venture, the Minister-designate outlined a consensus-driven approach to its future. He stressed that any attempt to revive or complete the cathedral must begin with broad-based stakeholder engagement rather than unilateral executive action.
”I want to assure this House that if I am approved, I will engage the leadership of the Christian community, and if they want to still have it, I will engage with the President,” Ayariga testified. “If it is his wish, I will mobilize funds for its construction.”
If confirmed, he pledged to facilitate these critical consultations to determine whether a unified, properly funded path forward exists for the project.
Eugenia Ewoenam Osei
