Scaled-Down Independence Day: 69th Anniversary costs GH¢1.5 million

The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has stated that the 69th Independence Day celebration will cost about GH¢1.5 million.

According to a report by citinewsroom.com, Kwakye Ofosu said the decision to reduce the cost of the celebration at Jubilee House is part of the government’s efforts to cut public spending while still commemorating the nation’s independence.

“It is to save cost. We have decided to save money and use it for other pressing national issues. It will cost 95 percent less than the previous celebrations, amounting to about GH¢1.5 million,” he is quoted as saying.

LIVESTREAMED: Ghana marks 69th Independence Day celebrations

He noted that previous Independence Day parades cost the nation approximately GH¢20 million.

The minister emphasised that the anniversary remains an important national milestone despite the scaled-down celebration.

“Sixty-nine years of nationhood is a very significant achievement,” Kwakye Ofosu said.

He reflected on Ghana’s progress over the years, highlighting unity and inclusiveness.

“Over the years, we have had our ups and downs as a country, but by and large, we have managed to hold ourselves together. We’ve built a nation that is inclusive, where there is religious and social tolerance,” he added.

Kwakye Ofosu also acknowledged the country’s steady development.

“Even if we’ve had setbacks, we’ve also made incremental progress. 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,” he said.

The 69th anniversary celebration will feature a parade at the forecourt of Jubilee House under the theme “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope.”

There will also be a parade by military personnel, with the reviewing officer being the Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces and President of the Republic, John Dramani Mahama.

The Special Guest of Honour will be the Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Terrance Michael Drew.

Similarly, the 68th Independence Day anniversary was held at the forecourt of Jubilee House.

MAG/MA

Watch President Mahama's grand entry for 69th Independence Day parade