President John Dramani Mahama has revealed this year’s scaled-back Independence Day celebration has saved the country 95% of the original budget.
According to John Mahama, the modest durbar was held due to Ghana’s economic hardship.
John Mahama revealed that a budget of GHC20 million was proposed for the event if it were to be hosted at Independence Square.
He added that hosting the event at the Jubilee House ultimately saved an impressive 95% of the original budget.
Mahama emphasised the move was necessary as they aimed to manage public funds responsibly.
President Mahama further acknowledged the sacrifices the country is making to manage its financial difficulties.
He further added that his government will prioritise the welfare of Ghanaians during a time of economic hardship and find ways to resolve the challenges confronted with the masses.
Meanwhile, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communication has revealed that Ghana’s 68th Independence Day celebrations will cost only a tenth of the amount spent last year.
According to Kwakye Ofosu, everything has been scaled down to significantly reduce costs.
He revealed that last year’s event held in Koforidua cost GH₵15 million.
Speaking on preparations, Kwakye Ofosu detailed, “ “In the past, there were 60 contingents made up of 60 men and women each. So we are talking close to 3,600 men and women and thousands of children who march.
“Now, everything has been scaled down to a little over 500 people. That includes both security personnel and schoolchildren who will be performing. This is to ensure that we do not incur the kind of costs we did in the past.
“I can reveal to you that the celebrations to be held here on Thursday will cost a tenth of what it took to host this event in Koforidua last year. That event cost GH₵15 million. What will be held here tomorrow will cost a tenth of that”, he added.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu further revealed President Mahama takes the Independence Day celebration very seriously and the scaled-down events in no way undermine the significance of the day.
“The scaled-down events in no way undermine the significance of the day. The Independence Day celebration is one that President Mahama takes very seriously.
He believes it must be celebrated, but in a manner that allows us to make savings that can be redirected into other areas of expenditure,” he explained.
