Ghana turned 67 on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, and, like the previous 66 years, it was marked with a grand celebration.
The event was held at the Koforidua Youth Resource Centre in the Eastern Region.
It was attended by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, who was the Special Guest of Honour.
Other high-profile personalities, diplomats, students, farmers, market women, traditional rulers, and security personnel also attended the event.
Themed “Our Democracy, Our Pride,” the occasion showcased the nation’s democracy, culture, and pride in the progress made since 1957 by assembling people from different parts and sectors of Ghana.
From the drills to cultural displays and marching that characterise the annual independence celebrations, the participants put up dazzling performances in honour of the country.
Here are some key highlights of Ghana’s 67th independence anniversary celebration.
- The president’s speech
Delivering his last Independence Day speech in office, President Akufo-Addo reflected on the nation’s journey and its resilience through challenges.
He emphasised the importance of taking pride in Ghana’s identity and values and passing them on to future generations.
On the nation’s democracy, he said today’s celebrated governance system was not given by the colonialists but achieved by the toil of Ghanaians.
The president also assured Ghanaians that the difficult economic circumstances are over and that they should look forward to better times.
- March Past
The parade featured 21 contingents of security agencies, representatives from 11 schools in the New Juaben Municipality, and various traditional groups.
These groups displayed majestic marching skills despite the times, while some security personnel fainted due to the long hours of standing.
- International dignitaries
The Independence Day celebration attracted about 120 ambassadors and high commissioners from different countries.
This signifies the global interest in Ghana’s democratic endeavours.
- Alassane Ouattara’s speech
The Ivorian President and Guest of Honour for the celebrations emphasised the strong diplomatic ties between Ghana and its neighbouring countries in his speech.
He lauded President Akufo-Addo for his exemplary leadership skills.
According to his, President Akufo-Addo has steered the economy and prevented adverse economic turmoil despite the global economic crisis.
The Ivorian President added that President Akufo-Addo excelled at the role of ECOWAS President, which is why he did not want his tenure to end.
President Ouattara also appreciated Ghana’s contribution to the success of the recently ended African Cup of Nations.
- Cultural display
The 67th Independence Anniversary celebrations witnessed spectacular Ghanaian culture on display.
As the event was held in the Eastern Region, the fashion, music, and dance of various tribes of the region were prominently featured.
- Military Drills
From officers jumping through fire rings to air demonstrations of counter-terrorism operations, the Ghana Armed Forces thrilled the audience at the independence anniversary celebrations with their skills and preparedness for attacks.