Ghana’s National Catholic Laity Council (NCLC) has sounded a strong warning over the country’s moral and socio-economic direction, calling for urgent action on corruption, youth unemployment, and environmental destruction.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of its 47th National Plenary Assembly held at Apowa in the Sekondi–Takoradi Diocese on March 15, 2026.
At the heart of the message is a firm challenge to lay Catholics, urging the laity not to remain passive observers but must actively contribute to the mission of the Church and the transformation of society.
The Council stressed that this renewed vision demands “communion among all members of the Church, active participation of the laity, and shared responsibility in the mission of evangelisation.”
Raising concern over governance, the communiqué warned that “corruption continues to undermine national development and erode public trust in institutions.”
On the economy, it described unemployment as a pressing crisis, noting that “youth unemployment remains a serious social and economic challenge,” and called for policies that promote skills development and entrepreneurship.
The Assembly also highlighted what it sees as a growing moral crisis, citing “dishonesty, abuse of power, weakening family structures, and rising indiscipline.”
On the environment, the Council painted a stark picture of the impact of illegal mining, pointing to “polluted water bodies, degraded lands, deforestation, and threats to public health.”
It therefore called for “strict enforcement of laws against illegal mining,” stressing that the protection of creation is a moral responsibility entrusted to humanity.
In a direct appeal to the government, the Council urged transparent and accountable management of national resources and leadership that prioritises the welfare of citizens.
Young people were also challenged to take up their role in shaping the future, being called to become “witnesses to hope and agents of transformation in society.”
On security, the Council expressed concern over the Gbenyiri conflict, describing it as involving “devastating loss of lives and the displacement of thousands,” and appealed for dialogue as the only viable path to lasting peace.
The communiqué concluded with a call on all Ghanaians to live lives marked by faith, integrity, service, and compassion.
By Theresa Kpordzo//Newswatchgh.com
