Ghana on March 6 marks its Independence day. The day is in commemoration of Ghana proclaiming freedom from colonial rule.
After about 83 years of being ruled by some European countries, Osaagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first Prime Minister and President in 1957, led the country to attain Independence from the British, the last country to colonise Ghana. Thus, making Ghana the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to break from colonial rule.
One common characteristic of Independence day celebration in Ghana is the Independence day parade and march past.
A parade is a public procession, especially one celebrating a special day or event, while a march past on the other hand is a formal march by troops past a saluting point at a review.
The parade and march past is often held at the selected venue for the National Independence Day celebration, where state dignitaries and citizens converge to celebrate the day. The only year a march past was not held on Independence Day was in 2020, due to the outbreak of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.
The country’s flag is hoisted, troops, civilians, students, public servants, march past the dais. The procession is mostly accompanied by rhythmic tunes from a brass band. The national anthem is also sung during this period.
Citizens who could not make it to the selected national venue, sometimes organise mini parades n their communities or in schools.
History of the March past
The march past dates back to the 1900s when Ghana, then Gold Coast became a member of the British Empire.
It was held to mark Empire Day in all British colonies in honour of the birthday of Queen Victoria but has since the time of Independence remained one of the significant features of the country’s Independence day celebrations.
What’s the significance?
For many, partaking in the march past gives a sense of patriotism. Others are also reminded of the struggles of our forefathers who risked their lives to save the country from our former slave/task masters.
Calls for it to be scrapped
Despite its significance, there have been calls for the 6th March Independence Day parade and march past to be scrapped; with many justifying their call with a claim that it has outlived its purpose.
According to a Graphic online report sighted by the Independent Ghana, some school authorities, in 2020, called for the march past to be cancelled from the list of activities to mark the day.
The report said a former headmaster, Mr. Wilberforce Azumah, argued against celebrating the day with a march past since the process was archaic and retrogressive in this era and averred that activities that would not have a toll on school children could be adopted.
He lamented over the fact that many schools devote lesson hours for rehearsals to impress the gathering and win awards, as part of the celebration.
In a latest development, actor turned politician John Dumelo has also called for the cancellation of the day, given the huge sums of money that has been invested into the parade and other activities to mark the day in the wake of the current economic crisis.
Nonetheless, the calls have been in vain since the event is being held in the Volta regional capital, Ho, on the theme: “Our Unity; Our Strength; Our Purpose.” In attendance are thousands of people including Heads of States from across the world.
Source: The Independent Ghana