The National Cathedral project has cost the government more than GH¢339 million, although it has been on hold for some time.
The Finance Ministry’s Minister of State, Abena Osei Asare, confirmed this significant expense in Parliament on Wednesday, July 3.
In response to Patricia Appiagyei, the Deputy Majority Leader, she was answering an urgent question about the amount of money allotted and spent on the controversial project.
The National Cathedral’s financial records are presently undergoing an audit, stated the Deputy Finance Minister.
“The total releases made for the National Cathedral by the government to date remain at GH¢339 million. This figure comprises GH¢225 million paid to the National Cathedral Secretariat, and GH¢113 million paid directly to the project consultant.
“There was a value-for-money audit done on the project in 2021. Also, a statutory audit of the National Cathedral of Ghana accounts by Deloitte Ghana was started in July 2023 and is ongoing.
“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.”
Since its inception in 2020, the National Cathedral project has been surrounded by controversy. Its construction has provoked discussions in a number of societal circles about a variety of topics, from the timeliness and necessity of such a massive edifice to the transparency and administration of the funds allotted for its development.
Read Also: National Cathedral not a misplaced project, it’s work in progress – NPP
