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Ghana’s 68th Independence: Budget Cuts & Key Highlights

Ghana’s 68th Independence Day: Budget Cuts, Reduced Contingents, and Key Highlights

On March 6, 2025, Ghana celebrated the 68th anniversary of its independence with a smaller celebration at the Presidency. This is a major change from the customary lavish festivities that take place in Black Star Square. President John Dramani Mahama made this choice to cut costs and reroute government expenditure despite the country’s economic challenges.

Cost-Saving Measures and Budget Adjustments

Minister of Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu declared that because of the significant financial strain, the government has halted the practice of holding Independence Day festivities alternately in provincial capitals. An estimated 1.5 million Ghanaian cedis would be spent on the scaled-down event at the Presidency, which is a significant decrease from the 15 million cedis spent on the festivities in Koforidua last year.

“These celebrations incurred significant costs, which, given the current economic state, the national budget cannot sustain. President Mahama made the decision to scale down the event to save funds that can be reallocated to more pressing national needs,” Ofosu stated.

Despite the budget cuts, the government reassured citizens that the significance of the day remains intact. “The President believes Independence Day must be celebrated, but in a modest way that aligns with our economic priorities,” Ofosu added.

What to Expect on March 6, 2025

Compared to the 3,600 staff and thousands of pupils that participated in prior Independence Day festivities, this year’s event had a much smaller attendance of just over 500 people.

The scaled-down program included:

A military guard of honor
Cultural performances by schoolchildren
A poetry recital by a senior high school student
Attendance by chiefs, religious leaders, students, traders, and political representatives

President Mahama also delivered a ceremonial address, emphasizing the importance of Ghana’s independence and the country’s progress. The event underscores the government’s commitment to financial prudence while maintaining the nation’s patriotic spirit.

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