The Kwabre East Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Joseph Amankwah, has called for stronger collaboration between government and the Catholic Church to advance national development, promote social justice and improve the living conditions of Ghanaians.
He said religious institutions played a crucial role in complementing government’s development efforts, stressing that building a peaceful and socially responsible society required collective commitment beyond the provision of security infrastructure.
“Our collective responsibility goes beyond providing security infrastructure. It also involves building a moral abode, peace and a socially responsible society,” he stated.
Hon. Amankwah made the remarks when he addressed the opening ceremony of the 2026 Plenary Assembly of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) at Our Lady of Grace Senior High School, Mamponteng, on behalf of the Ashanti Regional Minister, whom he represented.
He acknowledged the Catholic Church’s enduring partnership with government and commended its contributions to the development of the Ashanti Region and Ghana as a whole.
Commenting on the theme of the assembly, “Communion, Participation and Mission: Preparing the Catholic Church in Ghana for Her 150th Anniversary,” the MCE described it as timely and significant, particularly as the Church prepares to commemorate 150 years of its presence in Ghana.
He noted that the three elements of the theme underscored the importance of unity, collective responsibility and a shared commitment to the Church’s evangelising mission.
According to him, the anniversary offered an important opportunity for the Church to reflect on its remarkable journey, celebrate its achievements and consider how best to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities.
“At a time when our country is confronted with various socio-economic and moral challenges, the Church’s guidance and prophetic leadership remain essential in promoting national unity, peace, social justice and transformation,” he emphasised.
Hon. Amankwah expressed confidence that the two-week Plenary Assembly would provide a fruitful platform for reflection, constructive engagement and the formulation of recommendations that would strengthen the Church’s mission and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Reaffirming the Assembly’s commitment to working with the Church and other development partners, he identified education, healthcare, sanitation, social protection, youth development and community infrastructure as key areas for sustained collaboration.
He assured the Bishops and other participants of the Assembly’s readiness to strengthen cooperation with the Church in improving the welfare of communities.
Hon. Amankwah welcomed the Bishops, clergy and other participants to the Ashanti Region and wished them fruitful deliberations, expressing hope that the outcomes would bring renewed hope, spiritual growth and positive transformation to the Church and the nation.
By Theresa Kpordzo
