What happens on Ghana's Independence Day? History, facts and celebrations
Ghana's Independence Day is a public holiday observed every year. This day is a country's official holiday for Ghanaians at home and abroad to honour and commemorate their warriors who helped the nation attain its independence. Ghanaians celebrate Independence Day every year on 6 March with various activities. So, what happens on Ghana's Independence Day?
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Independence Day retains a particular spot in the hearts of Ghanaians. Numerous people recall the initial Prime Minister Kwame Nkrumah's great speech on Ghanaian liberty in Accra. At the same time, the British flag was taken down, and the new Ghanaian flag was raised.
History of Ghana Independence Day
Ghana was the place of residence for the Ashanti people, a powerful tribe in the area before Europeans arrived. Many distinct archaic Ghanaian tribes settled in regions rich in natural resources such as ivory and gold. These valuable items drew colonists and enticed them to go to the shores.
Whereas the Portuguese were the initial people to sit in the region, the attraction of the area's great wealth led to a brawl for oversight among numerous European countries. Britain seized control of some regions of Ghana in 1874, and the country was retitled the British Gold Coast.
What major events led to Ghana's independence?
After being debilitated by World War II attempts, Britain decreased its colonies and the authority it held worldwide, including those in Africa. A growing call for independence on the Gold Coast fuelled this urge.
Following the Gold Coast parliamentary elections, the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), a regional political party established by J. B. Danquah, called for "self-government in the shortest time possible" in 1947.
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Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah, erstwhile secretary of the UGCC and creator of the Convention People's Party (CPP), emerged victorious in the Gold Coast legislative election in 1951. In 1952, he was assigned as the commander of the Gold Coast government, and on 6 March 1957, the Gold Coast nation proclaimed freedom from the United Kingdom.
Following their autonomy, the new state was named the Republic of Ghana. Kwame Nkrumah later became Ghana's first Prime Minister, and the nation was the first in Sub-Saharan Africa to gain freedom from colonialists.
Importance of independence day in Ghana
What is the importance of Ghana's independence? There are numerous interesting facts about Ghana's Independence Day celebrations. Here are a few examples.
1. Reminds Ghanaians of their history
Many Ghanaians commemorate the country's liberation struggle on the Independence Day. There are numerous ways to remember the past within and without Ghana, whether chanting songs regarding independence, paying attention to Kwame Nkrumah's phrases, or perusing Martin Luther King Jr.'s speech.
2. It is a day to celebrate freedom
The day serves as a a reminder of the freedom Ghana gained after years of colonization by the British. They country celebrates its sovereignty and its people's relentless efforts to achieve self-rule.
Each year, an Independence Day parade occurs in Accra's Black Star Square, also identified as Independence Square. In recent years, the commemoration has also happened in new cities, Tamale and Kumasi. Black Star Square remains a prevalent celebration destination regardless of where the occasion is held.
3. It is a national unity day
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This is a day to reinforce the spirit of nationalism and promote unity as it brings people from all walks of life together.
Every Independence Day commemoration has a theme, and there is typically a combination of national and local initiatives to mark the occasion. Some initiatives include; trivia contests, memorials, prayer sessions, fitness campaigns and parades.
4. It has an economic impact to the nation
Independence Day is a significant event that generates economic activity through the sale of patriotic merchandise, food, and beverages, as well as the hiring of vendors and performers for the celebrations.
5. It is a great day to showcase Ghana's culture
How is how is the Independence Day celebrated in Ghana? Ghanaians display their rich cultural heritage through various activities such as music, dance, and traditional attire. It is also a good chance to celebrate and promote the Ghana's diverse cultural identity.
It's also an excellent opportunity to spend time with your loved ones. Aside from watching the sitting president's unity speech, Ghanaians can have a break, eat delicious meals, and participate in local festivities.
Ghana Independence Day Celebrations in 2023
2023 marks the 66th anniversary of the country's freedom from British reign. The theme for Ghana's Independence Day in 2023 is "Our Unity, Our Strength, Our Purpose". The 2023 Independence Day celebration will be held in Ho, the Volta Regional capital.
The suggestion is aligned with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo- Addo's vision of rotating regional celebrations of the event, which had previously been centred in Accra.
Source: UGC
Activities planned for the day include; a district-focused event, Invest in Volta, a route march by security agencies, a national flag hosting day, and an anniversary debate on 2 March at the OLA Senior High School in Ho.
Other events include the Ghana fitness and health walk, a quiz contest at UHAS on 5 March, the president's cup, which will be contested by Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak football clubs, and a boxing match.
FAQs
- What is the theme for 2023 Independence Day Ghana? The theme for Ghana's Independence Day in 2023 is "Our Unity, Our Strength, Our Purpose".
- How is Independence Day celebrated in Ghana? The day is commemorated parades, speeches, and cultural performances. Others mark the occasion with food and music; some might even fly the national flag in their homes.
- Which day did Ghana get independence? The country acquired its freedom on 6 March 1957.
- What does Kwame Nkrumah mausoleum contain? It accommodates the remains of Dr Kwame Nkrumah and his spouse Fathia Nkrumah.
- Where do we celebrate Independence Day in Ghana? Although the day can be observed in various locations, Black Star Square is the central spot for Independence Day commemoration.
- Which country in Africa gained independence first? Ghana was the initial African country to be free of colonial rule.
- What was Ghana called before independence? The Gold Coast
What happens on Ghana's Independence Day? Above are some of the activities on Ghana's autonomy day. The country gained its freedom from colonialists on 6 March 1957. It was the first country in Africa to achieve its independence.
Yen.com.gh published an article featuring the top richest companies in Ghana. Ghana's economy has expanded significantly in recent decades. This expansion has been supported by both the public and private sectors. Ghana's wealthiest businesses generate millions of dollars in revenue for the nation.
The wealthiest organizations in Ghana are the foundation of the country's economy. They make substantial profits and hire numerous individuals each year.
Source: YEN.com.gh
