Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has called for a re-evaluation of the ongoing discussions surrounding the construction of the National Cathedral.

According to the Finance Minister, the edifice when completed, has the potential to serve as a significant driver of economic growth. 

Speaking at the Ghana Tourism Investment Summit 2023, Mr Ofori-Atta stressed the cathedral's role as a robust infrastructure that could substantially boost the tourism sector.

The Finance Minister visualises the cathedral becoming a pilgrimage destination across Africa for millions of Christians across Africa, which could potentially attract an average spending of USD3,000 each. 

This, he believes, could translate into substantial economic benefits for the country.

“As we look at something like the Cathedral that has economic benefits beyond what we see… In Africa, we have some 600 million people who are Christians, so imagine Ghana as the new Jerusalem and these 600 million people floating through with $3,000 to spend; it is a very different reality.”

He therefore called on Ghanaians to adopt a more constructive approach to conversations surrounding the cathedral a

“Even as we contend with it and fight about it, let’s think of this triangle and find a reason why we should also add that as part of the infrastructure base as we build a society with a strong, resilient, and robust future,” Mr Ofori-Atta stated.

He reiterated government’s commitment to transforming the tourism and arts industry, recognising its immense economic potential to drive growth and generate employment opportunities. 

The Finance Minister also acknowledged the multiplying impact of the tourism sector, stating that it can positively influence other industries and boost overall economic well-being.