Founder's Day Celebration Set for Monday, September 22
Accra ,Ghana – September 17,2025 - The Ministry of Interior has declared Monday, September 22, 2025, a public holiday to commemorate Founder's Day, honoring the birthday of Ghana's first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. This decision comes after Parliament revised the country's holiday calendar earlier this year, restoring September 21 as Founder's Day.
Background of the Change
The amendment to the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act, passed in June 2025, removed August 4 as Founders' Day and designated September 21, Dr. Nkrumah's birthday, as the official Founder's Day. This move aims to recognize Dr. Nkrumah's pivotal role in Ghana's independence struggle. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some arguing that it overlooks the contributions of other key figures in Ghana's history.
Why Monday, September 22?
Since Founder's Day falls on Sunday, September 21, President John Dramani Mahama has, by Executive Instrument, directed that the holiday be observed on the following Monday, September 22, in accordance with the amended Act. This law stipulates that holidays falling on Saturdays or Sundays will be moved to the next Monday.
Other Changes to Ghana's Holiday Calendar
The recent amendments to Ghana's holiday calendar include:
- July 1 as Republic Day: Commemorating Ghana's transition to a republic in 1960
- Shaqq Day: A new Muslim holiday observed after Eid-ul-Fitr
- Removal of August 4 as Founders' Day: Replaced by September 21: Dr. Nkrumah's birthday as the new Founder's Day
The Ministry of Interior has encouraged the public to observe the holiday nationwide, honoring Dr. Nkrumah's legacy and contributions to Ghana's independence.
Source – Lead News Online/Shiela Amerley Biala
