I Honestly want to Communicate this, the uncompleted site intended for Ghana’s National Cathedral, with a large open foundation hole, could indeed pose security and safety concerns:
- Public Safety Hazard
The open excavation area poses physical risks to people, especially if access is not securely restricted. It could become an accident site if not adequately guarded by the same Security Forces…
- 2. Environmental and Health Risks: The standing water, if any, in such a large open area can lead to mosquito breeding, which increases the risk of malaria and other waterborne diseases.
- Potential Crime or Hazardous Activity: Unfinished sites can sometimes attract unauthorized activities, like crime or illicit dumping, which may go unchecked if the area is not regularly monitored.
- Financial and National Security Implications: An abandoned project of this scale reflects poorly on public project management, which can erode public trust in national projects and government accountability.
Furthermore, its presence without a clear completion timeline raises questions about resource allocation and long-term planning.
Below are some Potential solutions to address the concerns surrounding the uncompleted National Cathedral site which is a threat to National Security in the Republic.
- Secure and Fence the Site: Install a secure fence around the entire construction area and put up adequate warning signs to restrict unauthorized access.
Additionally, assigning security personnel or setting up surveillance cameras could help deter any criminal activity and ensure that the site remains safe until construction resumes or further decisions are made.
- Transform the Site into a Temporary Public Space or Green Area: If construction on the cathedral will be indefinitely delayed, consider temporarily converting the site into a public space, such as a community park or green area. This would serve a public benefit while preventing the area from becoming a neglected hazard. Temporary landscaping, seating, or pathways could improve the appearance and provide a safe, functional use for the space.
- Accelerate Decision-Making on Project Continuation or Repurposing: Urgently form a committee to reassess the project’s viability and funding sources, setting a clear timeline for either restarting or canceling the construction. If the project is no longer viable, explore options to repurpose the site for other national or community projects, ensuring that public funds are not wasted and the area is put to beneficial use.
These steps could help alleviate both the safety and security concerns surrounding the site, while demonstrating proactive government accountability and resource management.
If not addressed, this site could indeed be considered a national security concern, both from a practical safety perspective and in terms of public confidence in government-led initiatives.
Let’s fight for our Country.
The Writer, Wisdom Dickson Ahliyah is a freelance writer on security issues, especially those concerning personal and organizational security. He is a seasoned Police Officer with academic background in Law, Cyber Security, Social Work, Peace, Security and Intelligence Management.
He is also an alumnus of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre.
(For more information Email: dicksonny1990@gmail.com)
