Ghana, formerly the Gold Coast, is the first country south of the Sahara to gain Independence on 6th March 1957. The feat also inspired other African countries to fight for Independence. 66 years on, the republic celebrate this day to mark their freedom from the British colonial rule.
Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, a fierce Pan-Africanist, led Ghana’s Independence campaign and became the country’s first Prime Minister and later President (1957 – 1966).
The country in many years as part of the celebration, organised a parade at the Black Star Square, also referred to as Independence Square. Fan fact- the Independence Square is the exact location the first President of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah stood to announce the freedom of the state.
However, during the last few years, Tamale and Kumasi have hosted the festival for the first time in other cities.
In order to stimulate the local economy as well as to promote other regions to the outside world, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo determined in 2017 that the independence celebrations would be held on a rotating basis.
This year’s celebration is the first to held in the Volta part of Ghana.
Regardless, the Black Star Square continues to be the well-known gathering venue for the adjunct parade.
Ruth Sekyi
