Most Rev. Simon Kofi Appiah has been appointed and installed as the new Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Jasikan in the Oti Region.
He succeeds Most Rev. Gabriel Akwasi Ababio Mante, who stepped down after serving as the founding bishop of the diocese for 31 years following its establishment on December 19, 1994.
The Diocese of Jasikan covers the administrative areas of Jasikan, Kadjebi, Nkwanta, and Kete Krachi. It is bordered by the Diocese of Yendi to the north, the Diocese of Ho to the south, Togo to the east, and the Volta Lake to the west.
The ordination and installation ceremony attracted a large congregation from across Ghana and beyond.
Before his appointment, Bishop Appiah served as an Associate Professor in the Department of Religion and Human Values at the Faculty of Arts, University of Cape Coast.
The Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana, Most Rev. Julien Kaboré, officiated the ordination and presented the episcopal insignia, including the ring, mitre, and pastoral staff, formally ushering him into office.
In a message delivered on behalf of Pope Leo XIV, the Nuncio urged the new bishop to lead with dedication and provide strong spiritual guidance to his congregation.
The Pope, through the Nuncio, encouraged Bishop Appiah to shepherd his flock with commitment, drawing strength from the teachings of Jesus Christ, while calling on priests and the faithful to support him in his new role.
President John Dramani Mahama also congratulated the Catholic Church, commending its longstanding partnership with the state in areas such as education, healthcare, and social development.
Speaking on his behalf, Presidential Envoy for Inter-Faith and Ecumenical Relations, Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, described the appointment as a recognition of Bishop Appiah’s dedication and service.
The President noted that the role of the bishop extends beyond spiritual leadership to include broader societal influence, particularly in shaping moral values and promoting responsible citizenship among the youth.
He further praised Ghana’s tradition of religious harmony, highlighting cooperation among Christians, Muslims, and other faiths, and reaffirmed government’s commitment to working with religious institutions to promote national development.
