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The National Cathedral project, which has experienced major delays and continuous controversy since its inception, has been verified by the government to have cost more than GHS339 million.
Abena Osei Asare, Minister of State of the Finance Ministry, made this discovery on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, during a meeting of Parliament in response to a question posed by Patricia Appiagyei, Deputy Majority Leader.
“The total releases made for the National Cathedral by the government to date remain at GHS339 million,” Minister Asare disclosed. “This figure comprises GHS225 million paid to the National Cathedral Secretariat, and GHS113 million paid directly to the project consultant.”
Ms. Asare provided additional details on the project’s financial oversight, noting that a value-for-money audit had been completed in 2021, and a new statutory audit by Deloitte Ghana commenced in July 2023.
“Auditors had concluded the audit of the 18-month account ended December 31, 2020. Meanwhile, preparations are in place for the auditors to complete the remaining accounts for the periods ended December 31, 2021, 2022, and 2023,” she stated.
Since its 2020 inception, the National Cathedral project has been the subject of intense national discussion, with detractors criticizing the project’s necessity and timing in light of several socioeconomic difficulties. Protests about the use of public funding and delays have plagued the project.
The Minister’s report coincides with a rise in conversations over the project’s future and the wise use of public funds.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
