Ghana’s Chief of Staff, Dr. Julius Debrah, has called for a stronger partnership between the government and churches. This collaboration aims to address various national challenges for the benefit of all Ghanaians. He made these remarks at the 63rd annual session of the Ghana Baptist Convention (GBC) in Ejura.
Dr. Debrah highlighted persistent issues such as poverty, teenage pregnancy, and substance abuse in Ghanaian communities. He stressed that the government cannot solve these complex problems alone. The church, with its extensive reach and community presence, must be a vital part of the national response. This partnership is essential for achieving broader national progress.
This call for enhanced collaboration fits into Ghana’s broader economic and social development strategy. Churches have historically played a significant role in providing social services, especially in remote areas. They operate schools, hospitals, and skills training centres across the country. This reduces the burden on public finance and complements government efforts in critical sectors like education and healthcare.
“The history of Ghana’s development cannot be complete without acknowledging the contributions of the church,” Dr. Debrah stated. He further noted that churches help mobilise communities and shape generations of citizens. The Executive Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana, Rev. Dr. Cyril G. K. Fayose, also lauded the GBC for its community transformation efforts.
The government will likely continue to seek partnerships with religious bodies to deliver social interventions. This approach could lead to more decentralised service delivery and improved community engagement. Decision-makers will monitor how these partnerships translate into tangible improvements in social welfare and economic development across Ghana. This strategy also signals a recognition of the church's significant social capital and grassroots influence.
Dr. Debrah encouraged the Ghana Baptist Convention to deepen its collaboration beyond the national level. He specifically mentioned areas such as healthcare, education, sanitation, and social welfare. These sectors are crucial for improving the living standards of citizens. The government views such partnerships as key to unlocking Ghana’s full potential.
The Chief of Staff’s message was delivered by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene. The event’s theme, “Revived to Reach Out: Proclaiming Christ in Every Community,” underscored the church’s commitment to societal impact. The Ghana Baptist Convention’s Executive President, Rev. Enoch Nii Narh Thompson, noted the session would discuss the church’s strategic plan for the next four years. This includes succession management and centralising ministers' salaries, reflecting the church's internal focus on strengthening its operations to better serve communities.