The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has praised the Catholic Church for its remarkable contributions to the development of the region and the nation at large, describing the Church as “a pillar and beacon of hope” in his address at the climax of the Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish’s centenary celebration in Bolgatanga.
Speaking under the theme “100 Years of Walking Together as a Family of God,” the Minister paid glowing tribute to the Church’s enduring role in education, healthcare, agriculture, peacebuilding, and moral leadership. He emphasized that the Church’s century-long presence in the region is not just a milestone but a testament to resilience, faith, and selfless service to humanity.
“Indeed, it is a milestone worthy of celebration and deeper reflection,” he noted. “The Catholic Church has been a dependable partner in shaping moral values, fostering unity, promoting peace, and driving human development.”
The Regional Minister commended the Church for its visible footprint across critical sectors of national development, citing its unmatched role in building schools, clinics, and social intervention programmes that continue to empower countless individuals and communities in the Upper East Region.
He expressed the government’s gratitude for the strong state–church partnership that has supported Ghana’s development agenda over the years and pledged continued collaboration. “Government pledges its continuous partnership with the Church as an instrument of peace, social justice and human development,” he said.
Special recognition was given to the Catholic Bishop of the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Diocese, Most Rev. Alfred Agyenta, for his exemplary leadership in promoting religious harmony and regional peace. The Minister made a passionate appeal for continued prayers for conflict-prone areas such as Bawku and the Doba-Kandiga enclave.
As the centenary celebration reached its climax, Mr. Akamugri expressed optimism that the Church would continue to inspire future generations to embrace the values of faith, love, and service. “May the Diocese continue to grow in strength and grace, and may God richly bless the Catholic Church and our region,” he concluded.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Joshua Asaah|Bolgatanga
