Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has provided an update on preparations for Ghana’s 68th Independence Day celebrations, emphasizing that the event will be scaled down to cut costs while maintaining its significance.
“I’m here to give you a sneak preview of preparations towards the hosting of the 68th Independence anniversary celebrations at the presidency. As you can all see behind me, preparations are ongoing,” he stated.
According to him, previous celebrations were held on a grand scale at Black Star Square or rotated among various regional capitals, a tradition that incurred significant costs.
“These celebrations came with significant costs, which at the moment, the national purse cannot bear. So, President Mahama took a decision a few weeks ago to scale down the celebrations and bring it to the presidency,” he explained.
He assured Ghanaians that the event will still accommodate a large number of people, despite the reduction in size.
“As you can see, there’s a vast compound that has the capacity to accommodate hundreds of Ghanaians.
In the past, there were 60 contingents made up of 60 men and women each. So, you are talking about close to 3,600 men and women and thousands of children who march.
“Now, everything has been scaled down to a little over 500 people. That includes security personnel and school children who will be performing,” he said.
The minister disclosed that the scaled-down event will cost far less than last year’s celebration.
“I can reveal to you that the celebrations that will be held here tomorrow will cost a tenth of what it cost to host this event in Koforidua last year,” he added.
Kwakye Ofosu stressed that this reduction in spending does not diminish the importance of Independence Day.
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“The scale-down event does not in any way undermine the significance of the day. The Independence Day celebration is one that President Mahama takes very seriously.
He believes that it must be celebrated, except that he thinks it should be done in modesty and in a way that allows us to make savings that we can plow back into other areas of expenditure,” he noted.
He also urged the public to respect the invitation-only policy for attendance.
“I would urge all that if you do not have an invitation, please do not come because security officials will have the unfortunate task of having to turn you away. But if you have an invitation, please show up,” he advised.
For those unable to attend, Kwakye Ofosu assured that the event will be broadcast live on television, radio, and social media.
“You can follow tomorrow’s event through the magic of television and radio. It will also be streamed live on the social media handles of the presidency, on President Mahama’s own Facebook and X pages.
“It will also be on the Information Services Department’s Facebook, X, and Instagram pages. Up-to-the-minute updates will be given so that you do not miss much.
“From the comfort of your homes, you can be part of this important celebration, which seeks to foster national unity and chart a new path towards national development,” he concluded.
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