March 6th 2009, marks 52years of Independence of the Republic of Ghana. As the first country south of the Sahara to gain Independence, Ghana is indeed the hub for Africa and has supported the integration process at the sub regional level and of the continent as a whole.

Ghana’s vision for good governance; rule of law; respect for human and people’s rights provide an avenue for the accelerated development of the continent. Ghana intends to make the best of it with the support of all Ghanaians in spearheading excellence on the continent for the benefit of the people of Africa.

As we celebrate this day we solemnly view this period as a time of sober reflection; reflection on our achievements, our failures, our aspirations and hopes. Indeed, reflection on our vision that will spur us on as a vanguard nation with a mission in the proactive world of today. Looking back, from the beginning of our national journey, Ghana has come a long way to attain these coveted heights, in the sub region, and the entire continent of Africa. This year's celebration indeed is again marking another beginning of our cherished vision of a middle income economy.