Ghana's plans for a national cathedral are mired in controversy and delays − but also reflect religion's strong role in the nation's identity

The cathedral is being built in Accra, not far from the shoreline. Wirestock/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Ghana’s government aims to build a national cathedral: a multidenominational, monumental undertaking to house religious services and state events. Plans include a 5,000-seat worship space, a museum and a music school, reportedly projected to cost around US$400 million.

President Nana Akufo-Addo, the project’s biggest backer, describes the cathedral in weighty terms on its website. The cathedral “provides a historic opportunity to put God at the centre of our nation’s affairs,” he writes, “and serves as a symbol of our eternal and continuing gratitude to Him for the blessings He continues to shower and bestow on our nation.”