Nation modestly commemorates 68th Independence Day

The nation yesterday morning held a modest ceremony to mark its 68th Independence Anniversary with a parade mounted by only the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) at the Jubilee House in Accra.

Despite being scaled down from its grandeur character in previous years, yesterday’s ceremony still radiated the spirit of national pride, patriotism and unity that had defined the nation's journey since March 6, 1957.

A select gathering of invited dignitaries drawn from the diplomatic and business communities; security chiefs and personnel, traditional leaders, government officials and schoolchildren converged on the seat of government to participate in the celebration which was on the theme: “Reflect, Review and Reset.”

The ceremony was a departure from the usual grand national parade at the Back Star Square (Independence Square) and regional capitals, as was the case in the last eight years where security personnel, schoolchildren and a section of the public participated in the march past.

In attendance at yesterday’s event were former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor (2001 – 2009), and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (2017 – 2025), whose presence added a special spark to the occasion.

Also present were the Vice-President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang; former President of Tanzania, Jakaya Kikwete, who was the special guest of honour; the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Bagbin, and the Chairman of the Council of State, Edward Doe Adjaho, among others.

It was witnessed by enthusiastic guests who were adorned in varied colourful traditional apparel reflecting the country’s heritage and cultural diversity.

Grand entry

The event commenced with the arrival of President Mahama and his spouse, Lordina Mahama, accompanied by the 1940-birthed Mounted Squadron of the Ghana Police Service.

President John Dramani Mahama engaging in formal greetings with members of the clergy after the event

Horses on duty included Mighty Ocean, Step by Step, and Go Ahead.

Using the grand entrance from the main gate of the Jubilee House, facing the old Revolution Square, the President, who was in an all-white three-piece flowing outfit (Agbada), took the national salute after mounting the dais.

This was followed by the recitation of the National Pledge after which there were Traditional, Muslim and Christian prayers.

President Mahama inspected the parade, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Enoch Rafik Wehkole Awudu before he lit the Perpetual Flame, a symbol of the country's enduring spirit of independence.

The Mass Band of the Ghana Armed Forces put up a spirited display, forming three adinkra symbols in slow and quick time marches, including Wofro Duapa which signifies teamwork and support for good causes, and Nyame Dua, which represents God’s presence and protection, before forming a base camp in a two-file formation, leading to the formation of the number “68”.

There were poetry recitals from Services Primary and JHS School at Burma Camp centred on nation-building and development written by Edward Nii Allottey.

It was followed by a patriotic choral song performance by Tema SHS entitled “Aye Hu”, to wit it is scary.

Children from Akwaibu Basic Schools, Dansoman 2, 3 and 6 Basic Schools, as well as the Ebenezer A. M. E. Zion School, performed the Kundum traditional dance of the Ahanta people in the Western Region, and the Bawa dance by the Dagaaba in the Upper West Region.

There was also a Drum Appellation for President Mahama, which added an extra traditional touch to the ceremony.

Vision

President Mahama reflected on the country’s progress since independence and outlined his vision for the future.

President John Dramani Mahama exchanging remarks  with King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse, after the celebrations

He said the celebration was a reminder of the nation’s struggles for freedom and self-rule.

"It reinforces our national identity, our unity and patriotism while offering a moment for reflection on our progress and the challenges ahead," the President said.

He, however, said it would have been “unconscionable” to spend GH¢20 million on the celebrations as was done in the past considering the nation’s ongoing economic crisis.

“This is necessary, considering the economic crisis our nation is currently experiencing. Large-scale celebrations often come with significant security and infrastructure costs, which strain the national budget.

“By reducing the scale of the commitment, we wish to demonstrate a commitment to fiscal responsibility and the efficient use of our limited resources,” President Mahama added.

Brighter future

President Mahama further pledged to provide "bold leadership and the clarity of vision that is needed to navigate the turbulent economic waters we are sailing in currently while safeguarding our future”.

He emphasised the need for the country to break free from its cycle of dependence on foreign aid, stressing that proclaiming self-reliance while relying on donors was meaningless.

The President said a $10 billion initiative to modernise the country's infrastructure, create jobs and stimulate local industry was underway.