President John Dramani Mahama has received the leadership of the Christian Council of Ghana at the Jubilee House for a wide-ranging discussion on national development, moral values and good governance. The delegation was accompanied by the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, and his Deputy, Hon. Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, reflecting government’s commitment to open, respectful engagement with faith-based institutions.
The dialogue opened with the Council expressing deep concern about the scale and impact of illegal mining across the country. They described galamsey as a threat to the nation’s moral fabric, its rivers, lands and long-term security. President Mahama acknowledged the urgency of the matter and outlined the government’s renewed approach to tackling the crisis. He noted the establishment of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat, NAIMOS, as the central operational body coordinating intelligence, enforcement and monitoring across affected communities. He explained that government is tightening controls on the importation of excavators and introducing structured reclamation job schemes that provide genuine livelihoods for young people while restoring degraded lands. He assured the Council that these interventions form part of a short-to-medium term national roadmap aimed at environmental recovery and community stability.
The discussion also touched on Ghana’s moral and family values, with the Council seeking clarity on government’s direction in this area. President Mahama restated his public position that once Parliament debates, amends, endorses and passes the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, he will assent to it. He affirmed that the family remains the centre of the nation’s social life and that government is committed to protecting Ghana’s cultural identity and moral cohesion.
On the matter of national heritage, the Council reiterated their longstanding advocacy for the completion of the National Cathedral, describing it as a symbol of unity and spiritual significance. The President acknowledged their concerns and said government will continue to explore a pathway that is transparent, inclusive and responsible to the national interest.
The conversation extended to governance and accountability. The Council called for stronger anti-corruption efforts and equal application of justice. President Mahama assured them that independent oversight institutions will be strengthened to enhance public confidence and ensure fairness across all sectors. The Council also raised issues relating to mission education, urging better collaboration and clarity around autonomy in school management. The President acknowledged the valuable history of mission schools and pledged continued engagement to support their role in national development.
The delegation further expressed sympathy over the recent military recruitment tragedy. President Mahama thanked them for their condolences and assured them that investigations and systemic reviews are ongoing to prevent such incidents and safeguard national recruitment processes.
Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann
MLGCRA PR UNIT