The Presbyterian Church of Ghana must intensify its commitment to holistic well‑being, sustainable livelihoods and human dignity, according to Dr. Esther Ofei‑Aboagye, the keynote speaker at the 7th Annual Development and Social Services Consultative Forum at Abokobi.
Speaking on the theme “Celebrating Our Heritage: Building on the Foundation Already Laid—Fostering Health, Harvest and Human Dignity,” Dr. Ofei‑Aboagye said the church’s historic contributions to health, agriculture, education and social welfare remain a strong foundation, but must be expanded to meet the realities of today’s Ghana.
She called for renewed emphasis on holistic health, including mental health, maternal health, gender‑related vulnerabilities, aging and climate‑linked health risks. “Health is not merely the absence of disease,” she said. “It is wholeness of body, mind and spirit.”
On harvest, she urged the church to broaden its agricultural interventions to include climate‑smart practices, ecological restoration, youth participation, post‑harvest management and value‑chain development. She reminded participants of the church’s historic ecological sensitivity; from early Basel missionaries to PCG’s longstanding agricultural institutions, and called for renewed investment in soil health, water management, biodiversity and agroforestry.
Turning to human dignity, Dr. Ofei‑Aboagye emphasized equity, inclusion, rights protection, economic empowerment and ethical service delivery. She highlighted PCG’s advocacy against domestic violence, illegal mining, and its support for youth and women, but encouraged deeper engagement in social protection, climate justice, conflict prevention and safeguarding vulnerable groups.
“Human dignity is non‑negotiable,” she said. “Every person is created in the image of God and deserves respect, protection and opportunity.”
She concluded with a “wish list” urging stronger policy advocacy, improved communication, better use of Presbyterian development professionals, stronger internal partnerships and innovative financing models. “Our calling does not end with inspiration,” she said. “It must translate into deliberate action and sustained commitment.”
By Jerome Otchere
