Controversial crater. That is what some call the construction site of the National Cathedral of Ghana. I will tell you a story about this ambitious and debated project.
The National Cathedral of Ghana is planned as an interdenominational Christian cathedral. It is located here in Accra. It was conceived as part of Ghana’s 60th-anniversary celebration. The National Cathedral of Ghana will sit on a 9-acre landscaped garden. This area is next to Osu Cemetery.
President Nana Akufo-Addo unveiled the design in March 2018. The commissioning was set for March 6 2024. That was according to the then Finance Minister Ken Ofori Atta.
The architectural design reflects Christian principles. The National Cathedral of Ghana will include a 5000-seat auditorium. It will also have chapels and a baptistery. A music school will be on site. There will also be an art gallery. A museum dedicated to the Bible will be here too.
The design mirrors Ghanaian art and culture. The high-pitched roof looks like Akan architecture. The facade features timber like Ashanti royal stools. The draped roof takes cues from Ghanaian chieftaincy. These include boaman ceremonial canopies. They traditionally honor royalty. British-Ghanaian architect Sir David Adjaye designed the National Cathedral of Ghana. He also designed the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.
The National Cathedral is meant to provide a sacred space. It offers infrastructure for national religious activities. These include state funerals and presidential inaugurations. This national character sets it apart from other cathedrals.
The vision links to the design of Sir David Adjaye. It is anchored in world-class programs. These programs include Africa’s first Museum of the Bible. Cary Summers supervises its development. He is the founding President of the Museum of the Bible in Washington DC.
The government argues the National Cathedral of Ghana will bring long-term economic benefits. It will transform Ghana into a religious hub. This will create jobs and revenue. The auditorium could expand to seat 15000. It will also be home to Africa’s first Bible Museum. In addition the National Cathedral of Ghana would have a music school. There would be an art gallery and a national crypt for state burials.
The location of the National Cathedral of Ghana is strategic. Great cathedrals are near the centers of power. That is because formal religious rites take place there. These rites include presidential swearings-in. The executive director of the national cathedral secretariat said upfront investments bring revenue. They create employment.
The president says nothing will stop him from fulfilling his pledge to God. He is determined to advance the National Cathedral of Ghana.
The board chairman stated the project has been audited by Deloitte. There were no adverse findings. The board was briefed on the audit. Preparations are underway to resume the project.
The National Cathedral of Ghana. A symbol of faith. A source of debate. It stands as a testament to Ghana’s aspirations.