The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon Mahama Ayariga, has commended the Christian Council of Ghana for its significant contribution to national unity, peace and socio-economic development, describing the Church as an important partner in Ghana’s transformation.
Mr. Ayariga made the commendation on Friday, September 4, 2026, when he joined Christian leaders, members of the Christian Council of Ghana and other stakeholders at the Baptist International Worship Centre in Accra for the launch of the Second Ecumenical Convention.
The convention, held on the theme “Focusing on Transform through Creation Care,” brought together Christian leaders and stakeholders to reflect on the role of the Church in promoting national unity, responsible citizenship, environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
The Second Ecumenical Convention also provided an important platform for the Christian community to deepen collaboration among the various denominations and explore practical ways in which the Church can contribute to addressing Ghana’s social, environmental and developmental challenges.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Ayariga praised the Christian Council for its longstanding contribution to Ghana’s development, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, social welfare and the promotion of peace and national cohesion.
He noted that the Church had remained an influential institution in Ghanaian society and urged Christian leaders to continue using that influence to promote values that strengthen national unity, responsible citizenship and development.
The Church has been a critical partner in Ghana’s development, particularly in education, healthcare and social development.
The government is committed to deepening this partnership for the benefit of our people,” he said.
Mr. Ayariga said the government recognised the important role faith-based organisations play in shaping attitudes and influencing behaviour, stressing that national transformation could not be achieved by government alone.
He therefore called for stronger collaboration between government and religious institutions to help address challenges confronting the country and promote a culture of responsibility, integrity and service to the nation.
A major focus of the convention was environmental protection and the need for a collective national response to sanitation and environmental challenges.
Mr. Ayariga however urged churches and Christian organisations to intensify public education and advocacy on environmental protection, particularly sanitation, responsible waste disposal and the sustainable use of natural resources.
He stressed that creating a cleaner and healthier Ghana was a shared responsibility that required the active participation of government, religious bodies, traditional authorities, the private sector, civil society organisations and citizens.
According to him, the theme of the convention was particularly relevant because caring for creation should not remain a theological principle but must be translated into practical actions that improve communities and protect the environment for future generations.
He said the Christian community could play a leading role in changing public attitudes and encouraging citizens to adopt responsible environmental practices.
“As Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, I remain committed to working with faith-based organisations, traditional authorities, the private sector, civil society and all stakeholders to advance meaningful national development,” Mr. Ayariga stated.
He further expressed confidence that continued partnership between government and religious organisations would contribute significantly to national transformation, particularly in strengthening social cohesion and addressing challenges at the community level.
The Second Ecumenical Convention is expected to provide a platform for Christian denominations to strengthen unity and collaboration while reflecting on how faith can be harnessed to promote peace, responsible citizenship, environmental sustainability and national development.
The focus on creation care also seeks to encourage Christians to recognise their responsibility as stewards of the environment and to translate their faith into practical efforts to protect Ghana’s natural resources and improve the quality of life in communities.
Mr. Ayariga urged participants to use the convention as an opportunity to renew their commitment to national unity and development, stressing that Ghana’s transformation required a collective effort.
“Together, united in Christ and committed to caring for creation, we can transform our country.
Source: Felix Nyaaba /expressnewsghana.com
