About Republic Day
When is Republic Day?
This commemorative in Ghana and is celebrated on 1st July. This holiday commemorates Ghana becoming a republic on 1 July 1960.
Until 2019, Republic Day was a public holiday. Under the Public Holiday Amendment Bill which was passed in March 2019, Republic Day becomes a commemorative day.
History of Republic Day
Before the arrival of Europeans, Ghana was the location of the Ashanti, a powerful tribe in the region. The area had an abundance of natural resources, including gold and ivory, which attracted the attention of colonists. While the Portuguese had been the first to establish a settlement in the region, the attractiveness of the local riches led to a struggle for control between many European nations. In 1874, Britain took control over parts of the country, naming them the British Gold Coast.
Weakened by the efforts of World War II and a rising desire for independence, Britain began the process of reducing its colonies around the world, including those in Africa.
Ghana was the first sub-Saharan African country to achieve independence, on March 6th 1957.
Three years later, Prime Minister Osagyefo Dr. Kwame was sworn into office as the first President of the country and the republic was proclaimed on July 1st 1960.
How is Republic Day Celebrated?
Republic day has also become Senior Citizens' Day, a day to recognise the efforts and contributions of senior citizens to modern Ghana.
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