The Board of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Zion Church will undertake a landmark one-week visit to Ghana from December 14 to 20, 2024.
This visit marks the first time in the over 200-year history of the A.M.E. Zion Church that the global Board of Bishops—predominantly based in the United States—will visit an African country collectively.
In a statement signed by Rev. David K. Zungbey, Episcopal Secretary of the A.M.E. Zion Church, and shared with the Ghana News Agency, it was announced that the bishops’ itinerary includes media engagements and trips to key locations such as Keta, Anloga, and Cape Coast.
The bishops will also pay courtesy calls on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President-elect John Dramani Mahama, and the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana.
A highlight of the visit will be the Chapel Dedication Service of St. John Society, the first and oldest A.M.E. Zion Church in Ghana, established in Keta in 1899.
In addition, the group will tour notable landmarks in Accra, including the Dubois Centre, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Arts Centre, James Town Lighthouse, and Ussher Fort.
The current President of the Board of Bishops, Right Reverend Dr. Hilliard K. Dela Dogbe, is a Ghanaian and the first Indigenous African Resident Bishop of the church’s Western-West Africa Episcopal District. He was elected President of the Board at the 52nd Quadrennial Session of the General Conference, held in Greensboro, North Carolina, USA, from July 24 to 28, 2024.
The General Conference, the A.M.E. Zion Church’s highest legislative authority, convenes every four years. Globally, the church consists of twelve Episcopal Districts, each led by a Bishop.
The Board of Bishops, comprising all active and retired Bishops, provides oversight for the church between General Conferences, furthering its mission and governance.
