The Ghanaian government has announced a significant reduction in the scale of this year’s Independence Day celebrations, scrapping the regional rotation of ceremonies and parades to cut costs.
Government spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu confirmed on Wednesday that President John Dramani Mahama has ordered a simplified commemoration of the March 6 national event, citing the high cost of previous celebrations.
The 2024 event in Koforidua reportedly cost nearly 15 million Ghanaian cedis (€1.2 million).
The Key changes include: No traditional security and schoolchildren parades at Independence Square, national ceremony limited to an honor guard, cultural performances, and the presidential speech at the presidential palace.
Regional rotation abolished, with celebrations now restricted to national and district levels to reduce expenditure.
However, some traditional events will still be held, including the February 28 intersection shooting commemoration and the special presidential awards for children.