Ghana’s Bishops saddened by migration ask Caritas Ghana to step-in

Paul Samasumo –Vatican City

“We are encouraged to know that ours is one of the fastest growing economies in the world as indicated by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Other studies and our own observations, however, show that there is still a widening gap between the rich and the poor. In our experience, many in the urban and rural areas do not experience this economic growth in their everyday living experience. This is an unhealthy growth,” the Bishops observe in a Pastoral Communique released at the end of their Annual Plenary Assembly held at Our Lady of Calvary Pastoral and Social Centre, Asueyi, Techiman in the Brong Ahafo Region of Ghana. The Bishops met for their plenary from 9 to 16 November 2018.

The Bishops want the Government of Ghana, “as a matter of urgency” to roll out the necessary programmes” to bridge the growing trend of unequal wealth distribution in the country.

Caritas Ghana to help with the migration crisis in Ghana’s Brong Ahafo Region

The Bishops highlighted the serious problems associated with migration, particularly in the Brong Ahafo Region situated in the southern part of Ghana. According to statistics, many young Ghanaians who migrate originate from this region.

“We are saddened by the unfortunate loss of lives in the desert and the Mediterranean Sea of young men and women embarking on these perilous journeys. We share the anxieties of families who have lost contact with their relatives, who left for these journeys and pray for their safe return. As part of our commitment to minimise the high level of migration in this part of our country, we have instructed Caritas Ghana, our Development and Relief Organization, to prioritise actions to address this menace in the Brong Ahafo Region and the entire country. Caritas Ghana is to provide relief and other essential services to those who have been caught up in this regrettable situation,” the Bishops said.

The Bishops have also made a passionate plea for Ghanaians to heed the call to holiness. In the communique, the Bishops speak about the importance of caring for the environment, delivery of social services, education and youth unemployment.