Dr. Mahamamudu Bawumia, vice president, has emphasized that the administration is continuing its efforts to address the challenging times that have recently typified the Ghanaian economy.

The commencement of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, along with other enduring economic problems, hit the nation hard while it was on the road to recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic's devastation, which aggravated already-existing budgetary and socioeconomic woes.

Among other things, the scenario has caused a dramatic currency depreciation, high inflation driving up living expenses amid a mounting debt stock, and forced the nation to request a rescue from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

But speaking at the 70th anniversary celebration of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Tema, the Vice President said: “We do recognise the difficulties and uncertainty we are experiencing in our country”.

However, he added that with renewed strength and hope government is confident of turning things around.

Dr. Bawumia recognised the phenomenal role that the Catholic Church has played in the growth and development of communities across the country.

“Since its very inception in our country, the Catholic Church has been an educator; laying and building the foundation for many schools that provided sound education for millions of Ghanaians across the country.

“In the health sector, the Catholic Church has been a pacesetter in providing quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare for many Ghanaians, especially those in our rural communities,” he said.

He also added that the Catholic Bishops Conference has been an incredible check on the moral fibre of the country, constantly shining light on the path to growth and development.

“Given these,” he said, “I solemnly welcome the church as a willing and able partner to government in development of the country.”

With the Parish’s quest to construct a 4-storey multi-purpose building, a conference room, offices, meeting rooms, a skills-development centre and a library for the community, he committed to help make this a reality.

“I also commit to helping realise plans of the church to have an endowment fund that provides skills and training for young people in this community,” he stated.