Government to compile national database of religious institutions

The Minister of Local Government Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has announced plans to compile comprehensive data on religious institutions across Ghana to strengthen collaboration between the government and faith-based organisations.

According to the minister, the initiative follows a recent question raised in Parliament regarding the number of churches, mosques, shrines and other religious bodies operating in the country.

He noted that the issue exposed the lack of reliable and up-to-date data on religious institutions, which he said has made it difficult for the government to effectively coordinate engagement with them in national development efforts.

Ibrahim explained that the proposed registration exercise would enable the Ministry to develop a credible national database of religious organisations.

He assured religious leaders that the exercise is not intended to interfere in the internal affairs of churches, mosques or other faith-based bodies, but rather to foster stronger collaboration.

“Government recognises the critical role religious institutions play in promoting peace, unity and moral development, and we want to strengthen that partnership for national development,” he stated.