Accra: The Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, has paid a courtesy call on President John Dramani Mahama at the Presidency in Accra. The visit marks Archbishop Mullally's first trip to Africa as she embarks on a 10-day tour of the Church of the Province of West Africa.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Archbishop and her husband, Mr. Eamonn Mullally, were invited to Ghana by the Primate of West Africa, Archbishop Dr. Cyril Kobina Ben Smith. Accompanying her to the Presidency was a high-profile delegation of Anglican Bishops in Ghana and the British High Commissioner to Ghana, Dr. Christian Rogg.
During a brief meeting, President Mahama congratulated Archbishop Mullally on her installation as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury. He highlighted the historical significance of her appointment, noting its role in affirming women's contributions to spiritual, professional, and public leadership.
President Mahama also reflected on the historical impact of the Anglican Church in Ghana, particularly through the early missionaries in Cape Coast and the educational initiatives spearheaded by Philip Quaque in the 1700s. He acknowledged the Church's enduring commitment to promoting peace, justice, compassion, and human dignity, as well as its contributions to education, healthcare, social services, and community development.
The President emphasized shared values between Ghana and the Anglican Church, focusing on service to humanity, protection of the vulnerable, peaceful coexistence, good governance, integrity, and accountability. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to restoring economic stability and ensuring development and prosperity for all Ghanaians.
Archbishop Mullally expressed her enthusiasm for the visit, particularly the ground-breaking ceremony for the Church of Ghana's Heritage Anglican Culture Village and Resorts initiative. The project aims to tell the story of the transatlantic slave trade and support spiritual healing and cultural rediscovery for the diaspora. She also highlighted the global reach of the Anglican Church, which has 42 provinces in 164 countries.