ACCRA — The Ministry of the Interior has announced that Monday, September 22, 2025, will be observed as a public holiday in Ghana to mark Founder’s Day, commemorating the birthday of the nation’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. The official holiday falls on Sunday, September 21, Nkrumah’s birthdate, but under Ghanaian law, when a statutory holiday lands on a weekend, the President may designate the following Monday as the observed public holiday, ensuring citizens can honor the occasion with a day of rest and reflection.
Founder’s Day, established in 2019, celebrates Nkrumah’s pivotal role in leading Ghana to independence from British colonial rule in 1957 and his vision for African unity. As the founder of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) and a champion of Pan-Africanism, Nkrumah’s legacy includes landmark projects like the Akosombo Dam and the establishment of Ghana as a beacon of African self-determination. The holiday, declared via a statement signed by Interior Minister Henry Quartey, encourages Ghanaians to reflect on these contributions while fostering national pride and continental solidarity.
The decision aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s “Reset Ghana” agenda, which emphasizes cultural and economic renewal amid 4.5% GDP growth and inflation cooling to 11.5%. Public activities planned for the day include wreath-laying ceremonies at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra, educational forums on Pan-Africanism, and community events celebrating Ghana’s heritage. Schools and businesses will close, with state broadcaster GBC airing documentaries on Nkrumah’s life, from his role in the 1948 riots to his presidency until the 1966 coup.
The Ministry of the Interior has called for peaceful celebrations, with police ensuring safety at public events. Whether through solemn tributes or vibrant cultural displays, September 22 offers a moment to honor Nkrumah’s enduring legacy while reflecting on Ghana’s path toward a united, prosperous future.
