Mampong (Ash), March 7, GNA - The Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, accompanied by a retinue of sub-chiefs and queen -mothers, was the toast of the 50th Independence Anniversary parade at the Tadiem Park at Ashanti Mampong.

Dressed in rich kente with their traditional regalia, sat in state gracefully to watch proceedings marking the celebration. On parade were, contingents of school children, cadet corps of some second cycle schools, market women and other identifiable groups. Delivering the Presidents' Anniversary address, the Sekyere West District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr Huruna Oppong-Boateng paid tribute to the founding fathers of the nation.

He said it was important for the youth to continue to work hard to bring honour and pride to the country and the rest of Africa, The President urged them to stay at home and resist the temptation of migrating to the well-endowed western countries in search of greener pastures.

The DCE said to make the next 50 years better for the next generation, the District Assembly was spending more than a third of its total revenue on education to provide a solid foundation for rapid socio-economic development.

Mr. Oppong-Boateng called on the chiefs and people of the area to put their differences behind them and forge ahead with the common purpose of achieving the dreams of the founding fathers. "On this momentous occasion of Ghana's 50th Independence Anniversary, let us remind ourselves of the need to strive for greater unity, peace and hard work for increased economic growth and prosperity", he said.

He told the school children that the government would continue to pay more attention to their needs not only because they were the leaders of tomorrow, but also because they form an important sector of the population.

The DCE, assisted by the Mampong Divisional Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Augustine Gyening and the District Director of Education, Mrs. Gladys Amaning, took the salute at the parade.

Present at the ceremony were the MP for Mampong, Mr. Peter Sarkodie, the Presiding Member of the Sekyere West District Assembly, Mr. Rockson Kofi Agyemang, departmental heads, teachers, the clergy and the public. 07 Mar 07