In a decisive move reflecting fiscal prudence, President John Dramani Mahama scaled down Ghana’s 68th Independence Day celebrations, achieving a remarkable 95% cost reduction. The festivities, traditionally held at the expansive Independence Square with considerable fanfare, were relocated to the more modest setting of the Jubilee House, the seat of government. This strategic shift resulted in expenditures plummeting from an anticipated GH₵20 million to a mere GH₵1.5 million.
In previous years, the Independence Day celebrations incurred substantial costs, with GH₵15 million spent in Koforidua and GH₵13.7 million in Ho. The decision to hold this year’s event at the Jubilee House not only preserved the essence of the occasion but also demonstrated a commitment to prudent financial management amidst economic challenges.
Despite the scaled-down nature of the event, President Mahama emphasized that the significance of Independence Day remains undiminished. He underscored its pivotal role in inspiring other Sub-Saharan African nations to pursue independence and self-determination, marking it as a cornerstone of Ghana’s national identity.
