Ghana’s national colours, symbols and songs, merged into a beautiful blend of culture , arts and history at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium yesterday, where the country marked six- and-half decades of self-rule.
For about six hours that the event lasted, the sports arena became a platform of praise from a thankful nation to its freedom fighters, whose selflessness and relentlessness gave the country its independence from colonialism.
The 15,000 seating capacity facility was filled to the brim by government officials, traditional rulers, security personnel, students and members of the diplomatic community who waved miniature Ghana flags intermittently.
Held under the theme “Working Together, Bouncing Back Together”, the ceremony was hosted for the first time by the former capital of the country since the rotation of the national event began three years ago.
Coincidentally, the 65th Independence anniversary fell on the 65th day of the year. The day started with mild rays from the morning sun and culminated into a not-so friendly weather as the event progressed.
As of 8:00 a.m., 46 officers of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and 1,042 contingents made up of personnel from the security services and selected schools, had assembled.
Under the command of Colonel Eric Boamposem and with their uniform ironed to crisp perfection, they stood alert to march with military precision to the sound of fast-paced music from the GAF band.
The arrival of the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and his wife, Samira Bawumia at about 9:24 a.m., sent spectators into a frenzy as they cheered them until they took their place on the dais.
The special guest, the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Amor Mottley, received a warm welcome, while the stadium erupted into jeers , and standing ovation when President Akufo-Addo and the first lady, Rebecca, entered the stadium.
Already seated were the traditional rulers led by the President of the Central Regional House of Chiefs, Odeefuo Amoakwa Buadu VIII and the Paramount Chief of the Oguaa Traditional Area, Osabarima Kwesi Atta II.
Then came the march-past which was not only a showcase of some of the best schools in the Central Region – the citadel of education- but a taste of masquerades, Asafo companies, market women, fisherfolks from the region.
In the long procession were representatives from each of the 16 regions, dressed in tune with their culture. Poetry recitals from eloquent students brought smiles to the faces of spectators.
Gymnastics and the helicopter displays by the military added spice to the annual event which was held on a low-key note at the presidency last year, due to the COVID-19. The national anthem and the pledge triggered the spirit of patriotism in the audience.
The showcase of military hard ware by the Ghana Armed Forces also added colour to the celebration, as they received cheers from the crowd, boosting their morale to defend the country by sea, land and the air.
While the long but powerful speech by Prime Minister Mottley evoked a sense of African Unity, that of President Akufo Addo paid glowing tribute to heroes of independence and rallied the nation to help build back better from the ruins of COVID-19.
The dignitaries and spectators adorned themselves in attires befitting a national event. President Akufo-Addo wore a white shirt with the 65th anniversary logo fixed above the left breast pocket.
Prime Minister Mottley also wore white with kente stole on her shoulder; Dr Bawumia was in a white Agbada while the first and second ladies were resplendent in kente apparel.
BY JONATHAN DONKOR
