President John Dramani Mahama has announced a scaled-down approach to Ghana’s 68th Independence Day celebrations as part of efforts to reduce government expenditure.
The revised plan limits the commemoration to national and district levels, scrapping all regional activities.
A statement from the Jubilee House outlined that the national event will take place at the forecourt of the Presidency. Unlike previous years, the celebration will not feature a parade or march past by security agencies and schoolchildren.
To ensure uniformity, Regional Ministers have been directed to oversee Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in organizing smaller-scale events within their jurisdictions.
Despite the cutbacks, two significant events remain on the schedule: the commemoration of the 28th February Crossroads Shooting Incident and the President’s Special Awards for Children.
Key Activities for the National Event
The revised program will include:
- A Guard of Honour mounted by security agencies
- Cultural performances and recitals
- A national address by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces
The decision to trim Independence Day celebrations aligns with the government’s broader strategy to manage public spending amid economic challenges.
