10 shocking revelations from the National Cathedral Audit report
Ghana’s National Cathedral project—once hailed as a landmark of faith and national pride—has been plunged into controversy after a damning audit report exposed financial irregularities, procurement breaches, and questionable spending.
The confidential document, prepared by Deloitte and Touche, reveals how $97 million of taxpayer money was spent with little physical progress to show for it.
FULL DOCUMENT: Read the full Deloitte and Touche audit report on Ghana's National Cathedral
From unauthorised payments to missing contracts and lavish expenses, here are 10 shocking revelations from the audit that every Ghanaian should know:
1. $97 Million Spent, No Cathedral Built
The project has no significant structure despite $97 million (GH¢339 million) spent between 2021 and 2023.
2. Payments Made Before Contracts Were Signed
GH¢15.7 million was paid to architect David Adjaye before a contract was signed.
3. Unexplained Differences in Payments
Confirmation documents showed GH¢4.9 million discrepancies between government records and Adjaye’s firm.
4. $12.4 Million Spent on Unapproved Design Changes
Additional work (museum, restaurant) was done without PPA approval or a signed contract.
5. Fundraising Events Yielded No Donations
$110,630 was spent on U.S. fundraising, but no money was raised from these efforts.
6. Personal Expenses Charged to the Project
$24,498 was spent on engraved mugs, pens, and an Apple laptop for a consultant.
7. No Loan Agreement for GH¢2.6 Million "Soft Loan"
A Board member’s company gave a loan with no signed terms, repaid in just 12 days.
8. Procurement Laws Were Violated
The single-source selection of Adjaye breached Ghana’s Public Procurement Act.
9. Staff Pension Contributions Were Not Paid
The Secretariat failed to remit pension funds, violating Ghana’s National Pension Act.
10. Project May Collapse Due to Debt
Contractors are owed GH¢343 million, and construction has been stalled since 2022.
Final Takeaway: The report reveals financial mismanagement, weak controls, and questionable spending, raising doubts about the project’s viability and accountability.
