For the past decades, Independence Day celebration has always been held at the Black Star Square in Accra but for this year, the Akufo-Addo-led government decided to host it in the Northern Region and has been lauded by Ghanaians for taking such an initiative.

According to some people who spoke to GhanaWeb, the action taken by the President has given residents of Tamale and its neighbouring towns the opportunity to witness such an august occasion for the first time.

Adding that, it will give visitors the chance to explore Tamale and its environs, whilst on the other hand, give residents of Tamale the chance to come into contact with the President of the Republic and other dignitaries present for the occasion.

Some were of the view that, rotation of the venues for the Independence Day celebration at various regional capitals will make residents feel equally important and will also lessen the pressure in Accra.

Contrary to the appraisals given to the President, Others, on the other hand, were of the view that there is no need for the President to hold independence in other regions because Accra is noted as the capital of the country.



Background

Over twenty thousand people were gathered at the Aliu Mahama stadium in Tamale for the 62nd Independence Day celebration.

This year’s anniversary celebration was held outside Accra for the first time and was on the theme ‘Celebrating Peace and Unity.’

Tamale was chosen as the venue not only to underline the unity of our nation, but also to express the appreciation of the nation for the peace and the process of reconciliation that have engulfed Dagbon since the enskinment of Yaa-Na Mahama Abukari II as Overlord of Dagbon, on January 25, 2019.

Ministers of State, Former Presidents including John Dramani Mahama, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings and the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya Naa Abukari Mahama II and other chiefs of Dagbon in attendance.

President of the Republic of Niger, H.E. Mahamadou Issoufou was the Special guest of honour of the event.