Founders' Day in Ghana

Founders' Day is a public holiday in Ghana that honors the country's founding fathers who led the way to independence from British colonial rule. The day is locally known as "Yawm al-Muassis" and is celebrated on August 4th every year.

History

Founders' Day was first introduced in Ghana on August 4th, 2017, by the President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. The day was set aside to pay tribute to the leaders who played significant roles in the struggle for independence, with a special focus on the "Big Six" – Joseph Boakye Danquah, Emmanuel Obetsebi-Lamptey, William Ofori Atta, Ebenezer Ako-Adjei, Edward Akufo-Addo, and Kwame Nkrumah. These men were instrumental in the formation of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), the political movement that led the way towards Ghana's independence on March 6, 1957.

Customs

National customs for Founders' Day in Ghana

On Founders' Day, Ghanaians across the country come together to celebrate and remember the sacrifices and achievements of their founding fathers. The day is marked by various events and activities, including:

1. Flag-raising ceremonies: These take place in schools, institutions, and public places to honor the country's founding fathers and the national flag.
2. Speeches and lectures: Keynote addresses and lectures are delivered by prominent personalities and politicians, focusing on the importance of unity, patriotism, and the country's history.
3. Cultural performances: Traditional Ghanaian music and dance performances are held to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the country.
4. Community service: People engage in communal labor and clean-up exercises in their neighborhoods as a way of giving back to society.

Local customs for Founders' Day in Ghana

In addition to the national customs, various local customs are observed in different regions and communities across Ghana:

1. Visiting historical sites: People visit sites of historical importance, such as the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Independence Square, and the UGCC Commemorative Garden, to pay their respects and learn more about the country's history.
2. Commemorative church services: Religious institutions organize special church services to pray for the country and its founding fathers.
3. Family gatherings: Families come together to celebrate the day with feasting and sharing stories about the country's history and the roles their ancestors played in the struggle for independence.

Conclusion

Founders' Day in Ghana is an important occasion that brings the nation together to celebrate and honor the brave men who fought for the country's independence. The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the importance of unity and patriotism in building a better future for Ghana.