Credit: Kekeli K. Blamey
The government of Ghana has announced plans to scale down this year’s Independence Day celebration, citing high costs and economic challenges.
According to Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the celebration will be held at the Jubilee House in Accra, instead of the usual Independence Square. This decision is aimed at reducing costs, as the previous year’s celebration in Ho cost the country GH¢15 million.
The government has also paused the regional rotational celebration policy, which was introduced to rotate the celebration among various regional capitals. President John Dramani Mahama has instructed that the policy be suspended due to the high costs associated with it.
The decision to scale down the celebration is part of the government’s efforts to prioritize prudent spending and re-evaluate its expenditures in light of economic difficulties. Despite the scaled-down celebration, the government remains committed to marking the occasion in a significant and meaningful way.
Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu explained that the government is committed to delivering on its core mandate while being mindful of the current economic challenges.
He emphasized that the President values the Independence Day celebration as a significant part of the country’s history, but also recognizes the need to re-prioritize government expenditure.
The scaled-down celebration is expected to be a modest but significant event, aimed at promoting national unity and patriotism. The government has assured citizens that the occasion will still be marked with dignity and respect, despite the reduced scale.
