First-ever Atheist billboard in Africa unveiled in Ghana

Accra Atheists, an NGO of Atheists, Agnostics, Skeptics and Secularists who subscribe to the Philosophy of Secular Humanism have succeeded in putting up the first Atheist Billboard of its kind in Africa in the heart of Accra.

The group aims to create awareness of non-religious sentiment, provide a community for Atheists in Ghana, promote Humanism and defend human rights especially those related to issues of Freedom of Religion and Belief (FoRB). The group is also an Associate Member of Humanists International, the largest and oldest Non-Religious Organization in the world.

According to Ghana´s last census, an estimated 1.1% of Ghana´s population representing 350,000 + people identify as Non-Religious and the group seeks to achieve several goals with the initiative of putting up the billboard such as:

• Promote Atheism and Humanism as valid belief systems.
• Normalize atheism in a society where it is often misinterpreted as occultism or witchcraft.
• Increase membership
• Advocate for recognition of Atheists by the State and Government.

At the unveiling, Roslyn Mould, President of Accra Atheists and First African Vice President of Humanists International said “This is a dream come true. This billboard represents not just visibility, but validation for those who often feel isolated in their non-belief. Thanks to FFRF’s unwavering support, we have achieved something historic. This moment will never be forgotten.”

Sponsored by the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) in partnership with Accra Atheists, this historic installation marks a significant milestone in visibility and advocacy for African Humanists, Atheists, Agnostics and Skeptics.

The billboard, prominently displayed reads: “Don’t believe in God? You are not alone!” It affirms the presence of secular individuals in Ghana and beyond. The display is part of an initiative aimed at fostering awareness, encouraging open dialogue about secularism, and supporting the growing community of freethinkers in the region. It features a photo montage of activities that African Atheists have engaged in, even including a picture of group President Roslyn Mould being interviewed by FFRF Co-Presidents Dan Barker and Annie Laurie Gaylor in FFRF’s studio in the United States.

FFRF Co-President Annie Laurie Gaylor emphasized the initiative’s importance: “We are honored to support this courageous step toward freethought visibility in Africa. Everyone deserves the right to openly express their beliefs — or lack thereof — without fear. We hope this billboard sparks important conversations and strengthens the secular movement in Ghana and beyond.”

The billboard has already garnered international attention, with articles in development in Canada, Australia and Nigeria. Organizers are optimistic about its impact and hope to build upon this momentum to further advocate for secular rights and representation in Ghana and across Africa.