President John Dramani Mahama has described the Catholic Diocese of Navrongo-Bolgatanga as an indispensable partner in Ghana's development, commending its immense contributions to education, healthcare, social justice and community transformation over the past 120 years.
The President's keynote address was delivered by the Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations, Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, during the Diocese's 120th anniversary celebration at the Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Minor Basilica in Navrongo over the weekend.
The event brought together archbishops, bishops, priests, religious leaders, traditional authorities, government officials and hundreds of lay faithful to commemorate more than a century of Catholic evangelisation and service in the Upper East Region.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Afriyie-Ankrah conveyed President Mahama's warm congratulations to the Diocese on reaching what he described as a historic milestone. "Today is not merely an anniversary. It is a celebration of 120 years of faith, sacrifice, service, evangelisation and transformation," the President said in his message.
President Mahama paid tribute to the pioneering missionaries, clergy, religious men and women, catechists, traditional leaders and generations of Catholics whose dedication helped establish one of Ghana's most influential faith communities.
He noted that the Diocese's impact extends far beyond its spiritual mission, highlighting its contribution to education, healthcare delivery and social welfare across the Upper East Region.
"Indeed, the story of the Diocese is inseparable from the story of the development of the Upper East Region and Ghana as a whole," the President stated.
Reflecting on the anniversary theme, "Beyond 120 Years as a Local Church: Embracing Synodality in the Spirit of Evangelisation and Service," President Mahama said the principle of synodality, walking together through dialogue, participation and shared responsibility, aligns closely with Ghana's national development aspirations.
He stressed that Ghana's progress depends on collaboration among government, faith communities, traditional authorities, civil society, the private sector and citizens.
"As a nation, Ghana continues to navigate economic challenges, social changes, technological transformation and the aspirations of a growing youthful population. The future we seek can only be achieved when we work together in a spirit of partnership and mutual respect," the President's message stated.
The President identified youth unemployment, social exclusion, substance abuse, family instability, corruption and the erosion of societal values as pressing challenges requiring collective action. "Government alone cannot solve these challenges. We need strong institutions, committed communities and faith-based organisations that continue to inspire hope and responsibility," he said.
Speaking after delivering the President's message, Afriyie-Ankrah underscored the vital role faith-based organisations continue to play in promoting national unity, social cohesion and moral renewal. He also highlighted preparations for the 2026 National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, scheduled for July 1, expressing confidence that the event would further strengthen interfaith collaboration and reinforce the values of peace, unity and shared responsibility.
Also addressing the gathering, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, commended the Catholic Church for its enduring contribution to national development, describing it as a crucial partner in promoting education, social cohesion and moral values. Drawing on his personal experience as a beneficiary of Catholic education, the Minister acknowledged the Church's longstanding investment in human capital development.
"Long before Ghana attained independence, the Catholic Church was already providing quality education and shaping generations of responsible citizens," he said.
He noted that the Church has played a pivotal role in strengthening communities through its extensive work in education, healthcare and social welfare. "Our Lord is God, and He has been with us from the beginning of time and will remain with us until the end of time because He is Lord over all. Through faith, education and social intervention, the Catholic Church has transformed countless lives and communities across the country."
The Minister described the anniversary as more than a celebration of the Diocese's spiritual mission, saying it was also an opportunity to recognise its lasting contribution to national progress. "We are celebrating 120 years of faith, sacrifice, education, development, social cohesion and unity," he stated. "As a government, we remain committed to supporting the work of the Church and ensuring that our partnership continues to benefit future generations."
The Minister also announced financial support towards the anniversary celebrations on behalf of the government and other stakeholders, pledging continued assistance for the Church's educational and developmental initiatives.
