Mahama: Ghana’s Religious Diversity Is Our Most Precious Possession and Must Unite Us

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to religious inclusivity, describing Ghana’s religious diversity as one of the country’s most valuable national assets that must be protected to sustain peaceful coexistence.

The President stressed that the highest office of the land requires fairness, impartiality and equal service to all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs or affiliations.

He maintained that the Presidency must demonstrate equal respect and concern for Christians, Muslims, adherents of traditional African religions and Ghanaians who profess no religious faith.

President Mahama made the remarks on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, when addressing the 10th World Assemblies of God Congress, held under the theme “One Mandate, Every Nation.”

Although he acknowledged that his Christian faith remains a source of strength and guidance, he emphasised that his personal religious convictions must never override his constitutional responsibility to serve every Ghanaian without discrimination.

“As President, I’ve sworn duty to serve every Ghanaian: Christians of every denomination, Muslims, adherents of traditional religion, and even our citizens who profess no faith,” he declared.

The President disclosed that his commitment to treating all religious groups fairly had sometimes prompted questions from some Christian leaders about his own religious convictions.

However, he insisted that justice, fairness and equal treatment must remain fundamental principles guiding the decisions and conduct of every Head of State.

According to him, leadership requires the ability to serve people from different religious backgrounds without favouring one group over another.

President Mahama also urged Ghanaians to make a deliberate effort to preserve the country’s longstanding tradition of interfaith harmony and mutual respect.

“Ghana’s religious diversity is our most precious possession, and we must continue to nurture the relationships that enable neighbours of different faiths to live, work and care for one another,” he said.

He emphasised that peaceful coexistence among religious communities should not be taken for granted but continually strengthened through tolerance, understanding and cooperation.

Drawing on his personal experiences, President Mahama recounted growing up in a family with different religious backgrounds, describing it as an example of how religious diversity can coexist with strong family bonds.

He explained that differences in religious beliefs had not diminished the love and affection shared among members of his family.

“Nevertheless, our different religions do not affect the love and affection that we share,” he said.

His remarks underscored the importance of distinguishing religious differences from the relationships, shared responsibilities and common values that bring people together.

The President’s message also highlighted the role families and communities can play in promoting tolerance and demonstrating that people of different faiths can live together peacefully.

Beyond religious tolerance, President Mahama challenged the Church to play an active role in Ghana’s national development by promoting honesty, compassion, responsible citizenship and lasting peace.

He urged Christian leaders and congregations to help nurture ethical values and encourage citizens to contribute positively to society.

At the same time, he called on the Church to preserve its prophetic voice by speaking truth to power, challenging injustice and standing up against human suffering wherever it occurs.

His remarks placed emphasis on the Church’s responsibility not only to provide spiritual guidance but also to contribute to accountability, social justice and the well-being of society.

The President’s address at the 10th World Assemblies of God Congress reinforced his call for a Ghana in which religious differences are respected and used as a foundation for unity rather than division.

He maintained that protecting the country’s religious diversity and strengthening relationships across faith communities are essential to preserving national cohesion and peaceful coexistence.