President John Dramani Mahama has decided to scale back this year’s Independence Day celebrations, consolidating the event at the seat of government, Jubilee House, as part of a cost-cutting measure.
In a press briefing, Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of State for Government Communications, announced that the customary regional rotation of the celebrations would be suspended, following a review of the escalating costs associated with such events.
The 2023 celebration, which took place in Ho, cost the country an estimated GHS 15 million, prompting concerns over sustainability given the current economic climate.
“While the intention behind the regional rotation was noble, President Mahama has asked that it be paused to reduce expenses,” Ofosu explained. “The review showed that the additional costs imposed by rotating the celebrations were substantial, and given the country’s current fiscal constraints, continuing this practice was not feasible.”
Traditionally, Independence Day celebrations have alternated between various regional capitals in addition to the main event in Accra.
However, the government now intends to focus on a more modest, centralised commemoration to reflect the country’s current economic challenges.
Although the Independence Day event is considered a cornerstone of national identity, the administration is opting for a more restrained approach this year.
“The President remains committed to honouring this significant day in Ghana’s history, but is mindful of the need to reprioritise government spending in light of the country’s economic difficulties,” Mr Ofosu said.
By holding the event solely at Jubilee House, the government aims to reduce non-essential expenditure without diminishing the importance of the occasion.
