Islamic scholar, academic and former minister for Information, Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, is set to deliver the 2026 Liberty Lecture organised by the Danquah Institute, a policy think tank.
The lecture, scheduled for Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the Ridge Arena of Alisa Hotel in Accra, will focus on Ghana’s multi-faith heritage and the emerging challenges to religious tolerance in the country.
The lecture is being held on the theme: “One Nation, Many Faiths: Emerging Threats to Religious Tolerance in Ghana.”
It will be chaired by Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Addow Obeng, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, former President of Central University and former President of Presbyterian University.
Dr Abdul-Hamid is expected to examine Ghana’s history and culture of religious tolerance and the values that have enabled Christians, Muslims and adherents of other faiths to coexist peacefully over the years.
According to the Danquah Institute, although Ghana is predominantly Christian, the country has developed a multi-faith society based on mutual respect and the participation of different religious communities in national life.
The lecture will explore the historical, cultural and constitutional foundations of Ghana’s religious tolerance, including the role of shared institutions, everyday relationships and common values in fostering national unity beyond religious differences.
Dr Abdul-Hamid will also examine emerging developments and narratives that could threaten Ghana’s tradition of religious harmony.
Drawing on teachings and principles from major world religions as well as Ghana’s diverse traditions, customs and values, he is expected to challenge prejudices, misconceptions and false perceptions about religious communities.
He will further call for continued vigilance in protecting Ghana’s culture of religious tolerance, peace and harmony.
“The central message of this year’s Liberty Lecture Series is that although the lamps may be many, the light is one and Ghana’s unity and progress depend upon safeguarding the mutual respect and shared values that have sustained its multifaith society,” Secretary of the Danquah Institute, Mansa Williams said.
Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid has served Ghana in several senior public positions, including as Minister for Information and Minister for Inner-City and Zongo Development as well as immediate Chief Executive Officer, National Petroleum Authority (NPA).
Guests are expected to arrive from 4:00 p.m., with all attendees required to be seated by 4:30 p.m.
