Ghana’s upcoming 69th Independence Day celebration is expected to cost approximately GH¢1.5 million, a significant reduction compared to previous years, according to the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Ofosu Kwakye.
Mr. Ofosu Kwakye explained that the government has decided to scale down the annual celebration in order to save public funds and redirect resources to more pressing national priorities.
He noted that in previous years, elaborate independence parades involving hundreds of school children and large public displays cost the country as much as GH¢20 million. However, the government has opted for a more modest event this year.
“Previous parades cost the nation GH¢20 million. We have decided to save money and use it for other pressing national issues,” Mr. Ofosu Kwakye stated.
According to him, the GH¢1.5 million budget represents about 95 percent less than the cost of earlier celebrations, demonstrating the government’s effort to practice fiscal discipline while still marking the country’s historic milestone.
Last year’s 68th Independence Anniversary was held at the Jubilee House, the seat of government, instead of the traditional large-scale national parade. The scaled-down format is expected to continue this year as part of measures to reduce expenditure.
Despite the decision to reduce spending, Mr. Ofosu Kwakye emphasized that the anniversary remains a significant milestone worth commemorating. Ghana gained independence in 1957 and continues to mark the occasion each year as a celebration of national unity, resilience, and progress.
“Sixty-nine years of nationhood is a very significant achievement,” he said. “Over the years, we have had our ups and downs as a country, but by and large we have managed to hold ourselves together.”
He added that Ghana has built a nation that promotes religious and social tolerance, highlighting the country’s reputation for stability and peaceful coexistence among diverse groups.
Mr. Ofosu Kwakye also pointed to what he described as gradual progress in the country’s development, noting that although challenges remain, the government believes the economy is improving.
“Even if we’ve had setbacks, we’ve also made incremental progress,” he said. “Since the advent of this government, a lot has been done to improve the economy. The economy is in much better shape than it was before.”
The scaled-down celebration is expected to feature a modest national ceremony attended by government officials, security services, and invited guests, while still honoring Ghana’s journey since independence.
