Editorial: Pres Mahama’s Call For Church And Government To Partner In National Development Laudable

According to a graphiconline report, President John Dramani Mahama has called for a stronger partnership between the church and the government in national development, urging Christian leaders to set aside denominational differences and work together to expand the church’s reach.

Speaking at a thanksgiving service with the clergy in Kumasi on Sunday, March 2, 2025 Mr Mahama said churches are not just places of worship but also institutions that shape values, support communities and contribute to national progress.

He urged religious leaders to extend their outreach, particularly into rural areas, by investing in projects that create jobs and improve livelihoods.

“The church has always played a major role in Ghana’s development and we must strengthen this partnership to bring about positive change,” he said.

Mr Mahama warned against rivalry among Christian groups, saying competition weakens the church’s collective impact. He also urged churches to work together on social initiatives such as education and healthcare, while continuing to advocate for policies that protect the vulnerable and promote social justice.

First of all, The Chronicle agrees with the President’s call for a stronger partnership between the church and the government in national development. The church has long been an influential institution in shaping values, supporting communities and contributing to national progress. Strengthening this role through enhanced cooperation with the state can yield significant benefits.

The church’s involvement in national development is not a novel concept. Throughout our history, religious institutions have played a crucial role in education, healthcare and social welfare.

Missionary efforts established some of the country’s most reputable schools and hospitals, and today, churches continue to operate educational and medical facilities that serve millions of people. However, as the President emphasised, the church’s mission should extend beyond spiritual nourishment to actively addressing socio-economic issues, particularly in rural areas.

One of the key aspects of the president’s speech was his call for churches to invest in projects that create jobs and improve livelihoods. This is a crucial intervention in a country grappling with high unemployment rates, particularly among the youth. Faith-based organisations have the ability to mobilise resources, both locally and internationally, to fund such initiatives. If properly structured and managed, these investments can provide sustainable employment opportunities while upholding ethical business practices.

Additionally, his call for Christian unity is essential in amplifying the church’s collective impact. The proliferation of churches in Ghana is indicative of the nation’s strong Christian foundation. However, internal rivalries and competition among denominations often dilute the overall effectiveness of their outreach programs. Instead of engaging in turf wars, Christian leaders should focus on collaborative efforts to expand their reach to communities that lack a strong Christian presence.

A more coordinated effort among churches can also enhance their advocacy for policies that protect the vulnerable and promote social justice. Religious institutions have the moral authority to hold governments accountable and influence policies that address pressing issues such as poverty, corruption, and inequality.

The church’s role in national development cannot be overstated. As the President rightly pointed out, the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. It is time for Christian leaders to step up, not just as spiritual guides but as active contributors to Ghana’s socio-economic transformation. A united and development-oriented church, working hand in hand with the government, can indeed help build a more just, prosperous, and inclusive Ghana.

The post Editorial: Pres Mahama’s Call For Church And Government To Partner In National Development Laudable appeared first on The Ghanaian Chronicle.

Read Full Story