President John Dramani Mahama has officially announced that July 1st, previously celebrated as Republic Day, will now be observed as Ghana’s National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.
Promoting Religious Unity and National Harmony
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the planning committee for the event, President Mahama emphasized the importance of Ghana’s religious tolerance and unity.
“One of Ghana’s greatest blessings is the harmony with which we practice our diverse faiths. Christians, Muslims and traditionalists, we worship differently but we work together as one people. This is a national treasure that we must never take for granted,” he stated.
Quoting both the Qur’an and the Bible, President Mahama highlighted Ghana’s exceptional example of peaceful coexistence in a world often divided by religious conflict.
“In a world where religion often divides, in Ghana, we shine as an example of our unity in diversity,” he said.
The President cited Sura Al-Hujurat Chapter 49:13 from the Qur’an and Romans 12:18 from the Bible to underscore the importance of peaceful living among all people.
Formal Declaration of the New National Day
With a sense of solemnity and hope, President Mahama declared:
“With conviction, reverence and unity of purpose, I hereby declare the Republic Day, 1st of July of every year, also as Ghana’s official National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.”
Inauguration of the Planning Committee
The President also inaugurated a national planning committee to organize the event, appointing former minister Elvis Afriyie Ankrah as its chairman.
Mr. Ankrah expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the committee and promised diligent work to make the day impactful.
“We assure you, Mr President and the good people of Ghana that we will discharge our duties with diligence and dedication. We understand the weight of the responsibility entrusted to us,” he said.
He stressed that the National Day of Prayer would not just be another occasion but a meaningful spiritual journey aimed at fostering national gratitude and unity.
Commitment to Inclusivity and National Spirit
The planning committee chairman pledged broad engagement across all regions, faiths, and social backgrounds.
“We will consult broadly, we will engage inclusively, we will bring everybody on board from every region, every faith, every background because the national day of thanksgiving belongs to all of us,” he assured.
Mr. Ankrah expressed hope that Ghana’s model would inspire other nations.
“It is our hope and prayer that the work we do will not only make Ghana proud but will serve as inspiration to other nations that the people who acknowledge God, give thanks to Him and live in unity can achieve their impossible,” he concluded.