Andrew Agyapa Mercer, the nominee for Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister, emphasized the importance of completing the National Cathedral during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on March 5, 2024. He highlighted how the cathedral project could significantly boost the country’s economic growth.
Expressing his willingness to work with Parliament to ensure the cathedral’s completion, pending his approval, Mercer stressed Parliament’s crucial role in achieving this goal.
“I’m not fully informed about the current financing status. However, it’s evident that the expected private contributions did not materialize as anticipated. In the 2023 budget, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta sought public funds to advance the project, which faced resistance from the House.”
“I urge Parliament to back the project despite funding challenges. We cannot afford to leave it unfinished. If given the opportunity, I will seek Parliament’s support, including that of our colleagues in the minority, to complete the project.”
Mercer highlighted the potential of the National Cathedral to generate income for the country and attract visitors. He stressed the importance of presenting a budget to Parliament for consideration.
“The National Cathedral was a well-intentioned project initiated by the President to be a joint effort between the state and private faith-based organizations. The state expected contributions, including from faith-based organizations, to ensure the facility’s completion.”
Initially slated for completion in March 2024, the cathedral’s construction has faced delays. Mercer underscored the urgency of finishing the project to harness its potential benefits.
