Ghana became the first country in Sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence from colonial rule in 1957, led by former president Dr Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah.

Ghana’s independence from British rule became a beacon of hope, inspiring other African nations to free themselves from the chains of colonialism.

Each year on March 6, Ghana commemorates this historic day with events that include a parade, a showcase of military strength, marching by school children and the lighting of the independence flame, among others.

These celebrations, however, come at a significant financial cost.

The cost of Independence Day events has often been a subject of public debate, with many citizens demanding accountability.

This article presents a breakdown of the cost of organizing the event in recent years, including the 2025 Independence Day celebration as disclosed by President John Dramani Mahama.

The information was also shared on social media by the Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor.

The 2023, 66th Independence Day celebration in Ho cost Ghana GH¢13.7 million.

The 2024, 67th Independence Day celebration in Koforidua cost GH¢15 million.

In 2025, the 68th Independence Day celebration at Jubilee House cost GH¢1 million.

LIVESTREAMED: Ghana marks 69th Independence Day celebrations

The 69th Independence Day celebration, according to government figures, also cost GH¢1.5 million.

Speaking during the 2025 Independence Day celebration, President Mahama noted, “The state spent 15 million Ghana cedis on last year’s celebration in Koforidua and 13.7 million cedis on the previous year’s celebration in the Volta Region.

“This year, we received estimates of at least 20 million Ghana cedis for holding the event at Independence Square on the same scale as the previous years.

“In a year when we are calling on all to sacrifice, including workers who have graciously accepted a base pay adjustment far below the rate of inflation, it is unconscionable to spend that kind of money on a few hours of celebration. Today’s event will save us 95% of the estimated cost of the event.”

“Last year celebration of our independence in Koforidua cost Ghana Ghc15m. And the previous one in Ho cost Ghana Ghc13.7m. This year we received Ghc20m estimates for celebrating our independence at the traditional Blackstar Square on the same scale as the previous years. Today’s… pic.twitter.com/kW9geH4woD

— Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, Esq. MP. (@etsedafeamekpor) March 6, 2025