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Tag: Holiday

  • NDC govt to amend Holidays Act to include an extra holiday during Eid al-Fitr

    NDC govt to amend Holidays Act to include an extra holiday during Eid al-Fitr

    President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to amending the Holidays Act to grant an additional public holiday for the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

    Speaking at the National Muslim Prayer and Thanksgiving service held at the National Mosque in Accra today, the President assured the Muslim community that the promise made in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto would be honored.

    “We promised to add one more holiday to the Eid-ul-Fitr. So as soon as Parliament settles, we’re going to amend the Holidays Act to include an extra holiday on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr,” Mahama declared.

    He emphasized that, starting this year, the Muslim community will have two public holidays during the Sallah festivities, enhancing the recognition of the significant religious event.

    In addition to the extra holiday, President Mahama reiterated his government’s commitment to protecting the rights of Muslim women to wear the hijab in public spaces.

    “We will protect the rights of Muslim women to wear their hijabs wherever,” he affirmed, emphasizing the administration’s stance on safeguarding constitutional freedoms for all Ghanaians.

    The President also outlined other commitments aimed at supporting the Muslim community, including scholarships for students in deprived Muslim areas, particularly in fields such as medicine, law, and ICT.

    He further pledged to increase the number of Arabic teachers and establish the Soiya Fund, a microcredit scheme designed to assist families in underprivileged Muslim communities.

    On financial reforms, Mahama announced plans to introduce Islamic banking instruments into Ghana’s financial system.

    “We also promised to introduce Islamic banking instruments in Ghana, and so we will begin the discussion with the Bank of Ghana on how we introduce Islamic banking instruments into our banking and financial system,” he stated.

    The President reaffirmed his government’s dedication to ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities for all citizens, particularly in underserved communities.

    https://twitter.com/tv3_ghana/status/1877736674462986350?s=46

  • September 23 declared public holiday to observe Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day

    September 23 declared public holiday to observe Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day

    The Ministry of Interior has announced that Monday, September 23, 2024, will be observed as a statutory public holiday in honour of Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day, which commemorates the birthday of Ghana’s first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

    Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day is an annual event marking the birth of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, born on September 21, 1909, in Nkroful, near Axim, in the Nzema East Municipality of Ghana’s Western Region.

    This year marks what would have been his 115th birthday. Though his birthday falls on September 21, the holiday has been moved to Monday since the date falls on a Saturday this year.

    In a statement released on September 19, 2024, the Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, called on Ghanaians to observe the holiday nationwide.

    “In view of the fact that 21st September 2024 falls on a Saturday, His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, has by Executive Instrument (E.I.), in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601), declared Monday, 23rd September 2024, as an additional Public Holiday, to be observed across the country,” the statement read.

    This public holiday originates from the New Public Holidays Act of 2018, which amended the Public Holidays Act of 2001.

  • Reinstate July 1 as statutory holiday – Prof Osafo to govt

    Reinstate July 1 as statutory holiday – Prof Osafo to govt

    Professor Joseph Osafo has urged the government to reinstate July 1st as a statutory public holiday.

    Ghana, which became a Republic on July 1, 1960, traditionally celebrated this day until the Akufo-Addo administration reclassified it as a commemorative day.

    Instead, August 4th was introduced as a statutory holiday to honor the founders of Ghana.

    During an appearance on Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” morning show, Prof. Osafo emphasized the importance of restoring July 1st, highlighting its significance to Ghana.

    He expressed that removing its statutory status has diminished a “certain sense of nationalism.”

    Prof. Osafo also contended that celebrating Republic Day as a statutory holiday “sends a message” and positively influences the national psyche.

    He argued that a commemorative day lacks the same authoritative impact.

  • June 17 declared public holiday to commemorate Eid-Ul-Adha

    June 17 declared public holiday to commemorate Eid-Ul-Adha

    The Government of Ghana has officially declared Monday, June 17, 2024, a public holiday in recognition of Eid-Ul-Adha, which falls on Sunday, June 16, 2024.

    The Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, announced this decision in accordance with the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601). Eid-Ul-Adha is a significant Islamic festival and a statutory public holiday in Ghana.

    Since Eid-Ul-Adha falls on a Sunday this year, the government has designated Monday, June 17, as an additional public holiday through an Executive Instrument (E.I).

    This adjustment ensures that citizens have the opportunity to observe the holiday and participate in cultural and religious activities associated with Eid-Ul-Adha.

    The Minister emphasized that Monday, June 17, should be observed as a holiday across the country to allow Ghanaians to celebrate Eid-Ul-Adha appropriately.

  • Govt declares March 29 and April 1 public holidays

    Govt declares March 29 and April 1 public holidays

    The Ministry of the Interior has issued a public reminder that Friday, March 29, and Monday, April 1, 2024, are designated statutory public holidays.

    A statement dated March 25, signed by the Minister of Interior, Henry Quartey, clarified that these dates will observe Good Friday and Easter Monday, marking the Easter festivities.

    “The General Public is hereby reminded that Friday, 10th April 2020 and Monday, 13th April 2020, which mark Good Friday and Easter Monday respectively, are statutory public holidays and should be observed as such throughout the country,” the statement said.

  • Jan 8 announced public holiday

    Jan 8 announced public holiday

    Government has officially declared Monday, January 8, 2024, as a designated public holiday in commemoration of the annual Constitutional Day. 

    This announcement signals a momentous occasion for citizens to reflect on and celebrate the foundational principles that shape the nation’s governance and values.

    The Ministry of the Interior has confirmed the relocation of the statutory holiday to a weekday, citing that the originally scheduled day, January 7, falls on a Sunday.

    This information was conveyed through a press release dated January 2, 2024, and endorsed by Ambrose Dery, the Minister for the Interior.

  • Interior Ministry releases list of public holidays in 2024

    Interior Ministry releases list of public holidays in 2024

    As the nation steps into the promising year of 2024, Ghanaians can anticipate a series of statutory public holidays that will commemorate significant events and cultural celebrations. 

    The official list of public holidays for the year has been revealed by the Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, providing citizens with dates to observe and reflect on the nation’s heritage.

    The holidays are not only a time for rest and relaxation but also serve as opportunities for communities and families to come together. 

    They play a crucial role in honoring historical milestones, religious observations, and cultural traditions that shape the fabric of Ghanaian society.

    Among the anticipated holidays are those that mark important historical events, allowing citizens to reflect on the journey of the nation and the sacrifices made by those who came before. Additionally, religious holidays provide moments for spiritual reflection and observance, contributing to the diverse tapestry of Ghana’s cultural landscape.

    Below is a list of public holidays as outlined by the Interior Ministry:

    With New Year’s Day, January 1 already gone by, the next public holiday will be January 7, 2024. This falls on Sunday so it will be observed on Monday.

    The next holiday is on March 6 which is Independence Day.

    The Easter holidays will follow with Good Friday and Easter Monday falling on March 29 and April 1 respectively. May Day, otherwise known as Workers’ Day, is on May 1.

    Founders’ Day which is to celebrate the founding fathers of the nation will be on August 4, while Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day which is to celebrate the birthday of Ghana’s first president will be on September 21.

    December 2024 will have three public holidays made up of Farmer’s Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day falling on December 6, December 25, and December 26 respectively.

    Two other statutory holidays that commemorate the Islamic festive seasons do not have their dates fixed yet by the Ministry of the Interior.

    “There are no fixed dates for Eid-Ul-Fitr and Eid-Ul-Adha because they are movable feasts. The dates for the observation are provided by the Office of the Chief Imam in the year,” the ministry noted.

  • Founders Day: Government declares August 4 public holiday

    Founders Day: Government declares August 4 public holiday

    The Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery, has officially proclaimed Friday, 4th August 2023, as a Statutory Public Holiday across the country.

    This special day, known as Founders’ Day, is dedicated to honoring the visionary leaders who played a pivotal role in Ghana’s journey to independence.

    Minister Ambrose Dery, in his formal announcement, called upon all citizens to observe this holiday with deep respect and gratitude for the nation’s founders.

    Founders’ Day holds profound historical significance, as it commemorates the courage and determination of Ghanaian heroes and heroines who tirelessly fought for their country’s liberation.

    According to the official statement, “The general public is hereby informed that Friday, 4th August 2023 which marks Founders’ Day, is a Statutory Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country,” the official statement said.

  • Govt declares June 28 public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Adha

    Govt declares June 28 public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Adha

    The Ministry of Interior under the leadership of Mr Ambrose Dery has announced that Wednesday, 28th June, 2023 which marks Eid-ul-Adha, is a statutory public holiday.

    As such, the general public have been advised to observe the day as such throughout the country.

    The date may vary according to moon sightings in different parts of the world, but Eid-al Adha 2023 is predicted to begin at sunset on Wednesday 28th June 2023. The three-day celebration is set to end on Saturday 1st July 2023. 

    Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Adha to commemorate this profound act of faith and submission to God.

    The religious celebration serves as a reminder of Ibrahim’s devotion and his willingness to sacrifice something dear to him for the sake of God. It signifies the importance of surrendering to God’s commands and trusting in His wisdom and guidance.

    During Eid-ul-Adha, Muslims worldwide perform several rituals. The main ritual is the sacrifice of an animal, typically a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, symbolizing Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son.

    The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one-third is retained by the family, one-third is distributed among relatives and friends, and the remaining one-third is given to the less fortunate and those in need.

    This act of sharing and giving highlights the values of generosity, compassion, and community solidarity.

    In addition to the sacrificial ritual, Muslims gather for congregational prayers at mosques or open prayer grounds. They also engage in acts of charity, visit family and friends, exchange gifts, and partake in festive meals.

  • Amazigh new year in Morocco approved as national holiday

    Amazigh new year in Morocco approved as national holiday

    The Amazigh new year has been acknowledged as a recognized paid national holiday by King Mohamed IV of Morocco.

    It follows a long-running campaign by activists for the recognition of the calendar recognised by the Berber people, or Amazigh as they prefer to be called.

    The Amazigh, who constitute around 40% of the country’s population of more than 34 million, celebrate the new year, also known as Yennayer.

    The first day of the year is based on seasons and agriculture – and counting is said to have started when an Amazigh king defeated an Egyptian pharaoh 2972 years ago.

    The current year is 2973.

    The day is also celebrated by Arabic-speaking Moroccans who call it the beginning of the agricultural year corresponding to 13 January.

    The royal palace said on Wednesday that the approval of the holiday showed the “king’s commitment to the Berber language, a fundamental part of Morocco’s authentic identity and a shared asset for all Moroccans”.

  • April 7, 10 declared statutory public holidays

    April 7, 10 declared statutory public holidays

    The Ministry for Interior has declared Friday, April 7, 2023, and Monday, April 10, 2023, as statutory public holidays.

    In a terse statement signed by the Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, he indicated that the two holidays mark Good Friday and Easter Monday respectively.

    “The general public is hereby informed that Friday, 7th April, 2023 and Monday, 10th April, 2023 which mark Good Friday and Easter Monday respectively, are statutory public holidays and should be observed as such throughout the country,” the statement dated Monday, April 3, 2023, said.

    With about 71.3% of the country’s total population identifying as Christians, the Easter festivity is a major event on the annual calendar of Ghana.

    The Christian population usually marks the period with various church activities after which they many people go out to public places especially beaches to spend the holidays.

    The Kwahu area in the Eastern Region remains the centre of attraction for Easter celebrations in Ghana every year.

  • Akufo-Addo declares Jan. 9 as public holiday

    Akufo-Addo declares Jan. 9 as public holiday

    The government has designated January 9, 2023, as a public holiday through the Interior Ministry.

    In a statement, the Ministry highlighted that Monday was designated a holiday since Constitution Day, which is observed on January 7, falls on a weekend.

    “In view of the fact that 7th January, 2023 falls on a Saturday, His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, has by Executive Instrument (E.I), in accordance with Section 2 of the Pubic Holidays and Commemorative Days Act, (Act 601) declared Monday, 9th January, 2023 as an additional holiday,” the statement explained.

    The public has been entreated to observe the holiday as such throughout the country.

  • Monday, May 25 declared public holiday

    Monday, May 25 has been a public holiday to mark the Eid-al-Fitr celebrations by Muslims, the government has declared.

    The day marks the celebration by Muslims worldwide to mark the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.

    “The general public is hereby notified that Sunday, 24th May 2020 marks EID-AL-FITR which is a Statutory Public Holiday.

    “However, 24th May 2020 falls on a Sunday and by Executive Instrument {E.I}, His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, in accordance with section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act, 2001 (601) has declared Monday, 25th May 2020 as a Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country,” a statement by the Minister of Interior stated.

    Source: Starr FM

  • April 10, 13 declared statutory holidays

    The Ministry of the Interior has declared Friday, April 10 and Monday, April 13, 2020 as statutory public holidays.

    The General Public is hereby reminded that Friday, 10th April, 2020 and Monday, 13th April, 2020 which mark Good Friday and Easter Monday respectively, are Statutory Public Holidays and should be observed as such throughout the country.

    A statement signed by Mr Ambrose Dery, the Sector Minister and copied to Peacefmonline.com today, Monday, said the days are marked Easter Good Friday and Easter Monday respectively and are statutory public holidays and should be observed as such throughout the country.

    Source: peacefmonline.com

  • Labour calls for clarity over claims businessman paid for PM’s £15,000 holiday

    Labour has called on Boris Johnson to clarify who paid for his Caribbean holiday over the New Year.

    According to the MPs’ register of interests, the accommodation – which cost £15,000 – was covered by David Ross, the co-founder of Carphone Warehouse.

    But a spokesman for Mr Ross has told the Daily Mail he did not pay for the stay and only helped to arrange it.

    Downing Street said the trip had been properly registered.

    The register also shows earnings Mr Johnson received last year before becoming PM, including more than £327,000 for seven speaking engagements, one of which was a three-hour speech where he was paid £122,899.74.

    The prime minister took the holiday to St Vincent and the Grenadines with girlfriend Carrie Symonds between Boxing Day 2019 and 5 January 2020.

    Labour’s shadow minister for the cabinet office, Jon Trickett, said Mr Johnson “must come clean” about the holiday accommodation, adding that if he does not, Parliament’s standards watchdog “should step in”.

    “The public deserves to know who is paying for their prime minister’s jaunts,” Mr Trickett added.

    The entry in Mr Johnson’s register of interests says Mr Ross donated accommodation “for a private holiday for my partner and me, value £15,000”.

    But a spokesman of Mr Ross told the Daily Mail: “Boris wanted some help to find somewhere in Mustique, David called the company who run all the villas and somebody had dropped out.

    “So Boris got the use of a villa that was worth £15,000, but David Ross did not pay any monies whatsoever for this.”

    Mr Ross was one of Mr Johnson’s aides in City Hall and was appointed to the Olympics organising committee.

    But he resigned from the roles, and his company, over a share scandal in 2008.

    It emerged Mr Ross had used millions of pounds worth of Carphone Warehouse shares as collateral against personal loans without informing the company’s other directors – a potential breach of City rules at the time.

    Mr Ross has been a long-standing donor to the Conservative Party, pledging £250,000 in the last election campaign.

    A Downing Street spokesperson said: “All transparency requirements have been followed, as set out in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests”.

    Mr Johnson faced criticism over his holiday for not returning sooner, after the US killing of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani raised tensions in the Middle East.

    It is the first trip abroad that Mr Johnson has declared since going to Saudi Arabia in September 2018.

    Only one other MP has declared a free holiday in the last year.

    Mr Johnson also declared payments he had received prior to becoming prime minister, including book royalties and hundreds of thousands of pounds for speaking engagements.

    In the first six months of 2019, Mr Johnson earned more than £327,000 for the seven speaking engagements, which lasted a total of 17.5 hours.

    He was also paid £22,916.66 a month for his column in the Daily Telegraph newspaper, which was published weekly.

    Source: bbc.com