By Edward Dankwah, GNA
Accra, March 6, GNA – The Ga West Municipal Assembly (GWMA) has commemorated Ghana’s 69th independence anniversary with a colourful parade and celebration involving schools across the municipality.
The event formed part of activities marking Ghana’s Independence Day, observed annually on March 6 to celebrate the country’s freedom from colonial rule.
A total of 21 contingents drawn from schools within the municipality took part in the march past, comprising nine public basic schools, seven private basic schools, two second-cycle institutions and three cadet corps.
In all, 630 learners and 42 teachers participated in the parade, displaying discipline and patriotism as they marched before municipal authorities, traditional leaders, education officials,and community members who had gathered for the celebration.
The contingents were inspected and assessed their marching skills, coordination, and overall turnout, as part of the traditional activities that accompany the national celebration.
The event also served as an opportunity to instill a sense of patriotism, civic responsibility and national pride among the participating students while encouraging them to appreciate the sacrifices made by Ghana’s forebears in the struggle for independence.
Speaking at the celebration under the theme, “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope” Mr. John Desmond Sowah Nai, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), GWMA, said the historic declaration, “Ghana is free forever” marked the beginning of a journey of self governance, dignity, and African pride.
He called for unity, responsible leadership and inclusive development as Ghana marked 69 years of independence.
Mr. Sowah Nai said the anniversary was not only a moment to celebrate the country’s freedom but also an opportunity for citizens to reflect on their responsibilities toward national development.
He noted that prosperity should translate into opportunities for all citizens, including farmers, traders, artisans, teachers, and young graduates seeking employment.
The MCE said the assembly remained committed to expanding local economic opportunities, supporting small and medium enterprises, improving infrastructure and sanitation, strengthening education and skills training, and enhancing revenue mobilisation to accelerate development within the municipality.
He said the assembly was implementing several projects, including the construction of classroom blocks and teachers’ accommodation at Manhean, Adjen-Kotoku and Afuaman, the completion and rehabilitation of school facilities in other communities, and the construction of a CHPS compound at Pobiman.
“Other initiatives include the drilling and mechanisation of 15 new boreholes, maintenance of 30 existing ones, dredging of drains within the municipality and installation of streetlights across electoral areas,” he added.
Mr. Sowah Nai assured residents that the assembly would continue to pursue transparent and people-centeredgovernance while ensuring that no community in the municipality was left behind in the development process.
He urged the youth to embrace education, innovation, and discipline, stressing that national prosperity could only be achieved through unity, peace, and collective responsibility.
“Let your actions reflect the pride of being a noble Ghanaian. It is instructive to know that our independence was won through unity. In the same vein, our prosperity will also be built through unity.
“Regardless of our political affiliations, ethnicity, or religious backgrounds, we are first and foremost Ghanaians. Let us therefore protect the peace we are enjoying today, respect our diversity and choose dialogue over division. Let us recommit ourselves to the ideals of freedom, responsibility, hard work, and integrity,” he stressed.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei
