A flag-raising and tree-planting ceremony was organised at the forecourt of the State House on Monday, 10th March, 2025, to commemorate the 76th Commonwealth Day celebration in Accra under the theme “Together we thrive”.
The Minister for Defence, Hon. Edward Omane Boamah, who represented the Minister for Foreign Affairs, in his remarks, stated Ghana’s commitment to the ideals of the Commonwealth, emphasizing the significance of collaboration among Member States.
He noted that the theme for this year’s celebration reflected the Commonwealth’s core mission in promoting democracy, to foster inclusivity and work together for peace and prosperity.
Hon. Dr. Boamah also reflected on Ghana’s democratic journey, highlighting the peaceful transition of power following the December 2024 general elections, which saw President John Dramani Mahama assume office and the historic election of Ghana’s first female Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.
He described this as a groundbreaking achievement for gender representation in Ghanaian politics and an inspiration for women and girls across Africa. The Minister also expressed gratitude to the Commonwealth Secretariat and Member States for their support in Strengthening Ghana’s democratic processes, particularly through election observation and technical assistance.
He reassured Ghana’s partners of the government’s commitment to deepening the values that bind Commonwealth nations together.
The British High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Harriet Thompson, delivering the King’s message stated that the commonwealth family is strong when we are connected through friendship.
She indicated that Commonwealth leaders came together in Samoa in October 2024 to reaffirm their “belief in the value of the Commonwealth as a trusted forum where diverse voices of Member States, large or small, the young and old, come together as one family”.
She also reflected on the eightieth anniversary of the end of World War II, and remembered with pride and everlasting gratitude, the untold sacrifices and selflessness of people across the nations who gave their lives in the dreadful conflict.
On his part, Mr. John Apea, the Head of Mission for the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council -Ghana, delivered the remarks on behalf of the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland KC. , He highlighted issues such as the Commonwealth solidarity, common ideas, and fortitude in the face of international difficulties.
He further emphasized how crucial cooperation among the 56 member countries was and the advancement made in modernising the Commonwealth to better serve its citizens.
The ceremony was climaxed with the planting of trees to symbolise commitment to environmental sustainability and the collective growth of the Commonwealth of Nations.
