July 1, Ghana’s traditional Republic Day, will now also be observed as a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving to renew the country’s commitment and reverence to God.
The declaration, which was a campaign promise by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2024 general elections, was officially announced by President John Dramani Mahama on Friday, April 25.
Speaking at a gathering in Accra, President Mahama said the move was in recognition of the spiritual foundations of the nation and the peaceful coexistence of Ghana’s religious communities.
“One of Ghana’s greatest blessings is the harmony with which we practice our diverse faiths—Christians, Muslims, traditionalists—we worship differently, but we work together as one people. This is a national treasure that we must never take for granted in a world where religion often divides,” the President said.
He quoted both the Qur’an and the Bible to emphasize the spirit of unity and peace that must guide national life.
“This is the spirit with which we must move forward. And so, with conviction, reverence and unity of purpose, I hereby declare the first of July of every year as Ghana’s official National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving,” said the President.
According to him, the day will be set aside to pray for national peace, stability, prosperity, and to reflect on the country’s spiritual heritage and values of tolerance, love, and mutual respect.
President Mahama encouraged Ghanaians of all religious backgrounds to observe the day annually with solemnity and gratitude, stressing that “it is only through unity and the fear of God that Ghana can overcome her challenges and build a future of hope.”
