Internationally acclaimed architect Sir David Adjaye OM OBE, has called for a renewed confidence in the architectural expression of African Christianity, arguing that the continent has a unique opportunity to shape how faith, culture and national identity are represented through architecture.

Speaking at The Bible in the Pan-African Imagination, an international symposium hosted by Central University Ghana and the Alliance for Black Pentecostal Scholarship (USA), Sir David Adjaye delivered a keynote address entitled "Towards an Architectural Expression of African Christianity”

Addressing an audience of theologians, church leaders, academics and policymakers from across Africa, the Caribbean and the United States, Sir David Adjaye explored the relationship between architecture, faith and nation building, drawing on examples from his work around the world, including the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington DC, the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, and the National Cathedral of Ghana. 

Reflecting on the role of architecture in shaping collective identity, Sir David said:

“The National Cathedral is not merely a monument, but a vessel of collective identity — a place where history, faith, and culture converge to remind us who we are and who we aspire to be. In building this cathedral, we are shaping the memory of a nation, giving form to the invisible bonds that unite us.”

He argued that African Christianity has reached a moment of global significance and deserves an architectural language that reflects its confidence, diversity and cultural richness.

Discussing the National Cathedral of Ghana, Sir David described the project as an opportunity to create a landmark that belongs not only to Ghana but to the wider African continent.

"The National Cathedral has the potential to become a place of pilgrimage, learning and cultural exchange. Alongside its spiritual purpose, it offers Ghana an opportunity to strengthen its position as one of Africa's leading destinations for religious and cultural tourism."

Sir David noted that throughout history, great religious buildings have served as catalysts for education and economic activity, attracting visitors from across the world while contributing to national identity.

His address formed part of a two-day symposium examining the continuing influence of Dr Mensa Otabil's landmark book Beyond the Rivers of Ethiopia, bringing together leading scholars to explore African Christianity, biblical interpretation, Pan-African thought and the future of Christian leadership. 

Concluding his remarks, Sir David encouraged architects, church leaders and public institutions to think beyond individual buildings towards the long-term civic legacy they create.

As one of the world's leading architects, Sir David Adjaye has designed museums, libraries, places of worship and civic institutions across six continents. His work explores the relationship between architecture, memory, identity and culture, creating buildings that foster dialogue, public life and collective understanding.