The President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, declared on Friday, May 29, 2026, that Ghana is prepared to reject foreign aid if it compromises national values, a stance taken following Parliament’s passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill. This declaration came in response to potential fiscal repercussions hinted at by Western governments and multilateral donors, who suggested freezing budgetary support if the bill becomes law.
Context of the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill
The recently passed bill aims to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana. However, after considerable parliamentary debate and amendments, the final version includes specific legal exemptions. These protections cover legal professionals offering services to LGBTQ+ individuals, journalists reporting factually on LGBTQ+ issues, and healthcare providers offering standard medical or psychological support.
Despite these adjustments, the bill has ignited intense debate both within Ghana and on the international stage. Supporters, including traditional leaders and various religious groups, argue the legislation is crucial for preserving Ghanaian family values and cultural heritage. Conversely, critics and international organizations contend that the bill infringes upon fundamental constitutional rights and could jeopardize Ghana’s international relations and its reliance on donor-funded development projects.
Challenging Foreign Aid Dependency
Most Rev. Gyamfi, speaking on Citi FM, critically examined the ethics and true value of the aid Ghana receives. He questioned whether these funds genuinely benefit the nation and challenged the underlying assumptions of Western donors. The Bishop suggested that the potential withdrawal of foreign funding could be an opportunity for Ghana to break its cycle of dependency and achieve genuine sovereignty.
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