President John Dramani Mahama has ordered a forensic audit into the National Cathedral project, which has so far cost the state \$97 million—despite construction stalling at the foundation level since 2023.
The directive was disclosed by the Minister of State in charge of Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, during a press briefing at the Jubilee House on Friday, July 18.
According to Mr. Kwakye Ofosu, while a recent Deloitte audit highlighted significant financial and governance concerns, it failed to comprehensively capture the full scope of operations surrounding the project.
“Despite the damning findings contained in the Deloitte audit report, it does not cover the full scope of operations of the National Cathedral Secretariat and the project itself. The Auditor-General has therefore been requested to commission a forensic audit into the National Cathedral Project and the activities of the Secretariat.” he said.
He added that the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice has been tasked to initiate steps for the legal termination of the contract in order to prevent further financial losses to the state.
“The Attorney-General and Minister for Justice is taking steps to ensure the lawful termination of the contract to prevent further costs and losses to the state. After the forensic audit, decisive action will be taken regarding any impropriety determined and the future of the project itself,” he added.
The National Cathedral was the flagship initiative of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who pledged to build the edifice in honour of God after assuming office in 2017.
Launched in 2021, the ambitious project was designed to include not only the cathedral but also a Bible Museum, Biblical Garden, 350-seater restaurant, and a library—meant to serve both religious and tourism purposes.
However, progress on the project has been limited, with only 8% of construction completed. The initiative has been mired in controversy, facing widespread criticism over procurement breaches, financial opacity, and the use of public funds for a religious venture.
The $97 million figure—part of which includes outstanding payments to contractors—has drawn sharp public backlash, intensifying calls for accountability and transparency.
