Ghana Holds National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving After Accra Floods

Ghana held a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving on July 1 at the forecourt of the State House in Accra, AllAfrica reported. President John Dramani Mahama spoke at the event and called on citizens to stay united, grateful and prayerful. Mahama noted that the gathering occurred not because all challenges had been resolved but to reflect, give thanks and renew commitment to national development.

He said Ghana had turned to God in both difficult and successful periods throughout its history. "We gather not as members of different political parties, ethnic groups or religions, but as one people under God," Mahama stated. He quoted First Epistle to the Thessalonians Chapter 5, Verse 18 to encourage giving thanks in all circumstances.

Mahama acknowledged the pain of families who lost loved ones and property in recent floods that struck parts of Accra. The event drew religious leaders, members of Parliament, the Judiciary, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, security service chiefs, traditional leaders and other dignitaries.