The Ministry of the Interior has declared Monday, September 22, 2025, as a statutory public holiday to commemorate this year’s Founder’s Day celebration, honoring Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
The announcement comes as Ghana continues its tradition of recognizing the contributions of the nation’s founding fathers, particularly focusing on Nkrumah’s pivotal role in the country’s independence struggle.
The holiday observance has been moved from the traditional September 21 date to Monday, September 22, following Ghana’s established practice of shifting public holidays that fall on weekends to the nearest weekday.
Kwame Nkrumah was born on 21 September, making this date historically significant as it marks the birthday of the man widely regarded as the architect of Ghana’s independence from British colonial rule.
This year’s declaration represents part of Ghana’s recent legislative changes to the national holiday calendar.
Parliament has passed the new Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Amendment Bill 2025, removing the August 4 Founders’ Day holiday from the national calendar, while Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day has been renamed as Founder’s Day.
The change reflects the government’s effort to streamline the holiday calendar and focus on key historical figures who shaped Ghana’s destiny.
The significance of this holiday extends beyond mere commemoration, serving as a reminder of Ghana’s journey to independence and the visionary leadership that made it possible.
Francis Kwame Nkrumah served as Prime Minister of the Gold Coast from 1952 until 1957, when it gained independence from Britain, establishing himself as a central figure in Africa’s decolonization movement.
His political philosophy and pan-African ideals influenced not only Ghana but the entire African continent’s approach to self-governance and unity.
The holiday provides an opportunity for Ghanaians to reflect on the principles and values that Nkrumah championed, including social justice, economic independence, and African unity.
Educational institutions, government offices, and most businesses will remain closed on September 22, allowing citizens to participate in various commemorative activities organized across the country.
These typically include wreath-laying ceremonies at the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum in Accra, historical exhibitions, and educational programs that highlight Ghana’s independence struggle.
The timing of this year’s Founder’s Day celebration is particularly poignant as Ghana continues to navigate contemporary challenges while drawing inspiration from its founding principles.
The holiday serves as both a historical marker and a call to action for current and future generations to uphold the democratic values and developmental aspirations that Nkrumah envisioned for the nation.
As Ghanaians prepare to observe this significant day, the government encourages citizens to use the occasion for national reflection and renewed commitment to the ideals that birthed the nation, ensuring that the sacrifices of the founding fathers continue to guide Ghana’s progress in the 21st century.
Story Written By Prince Asante Kwarteng | Kobby Kyei News
