Ghana celebrated its 65th Republic Day in grand style yesterday with a colourful and well-organised parade featuring over 20,000 members of the National Cadet Corps drawn from all 16 regions of the country.

The Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, represented the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, as the Reviewing Officer for the event, which showcased the discipline, loyalty, and patriotism of Ghana’s youth.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Boamah praised the National Cadet Corps for their outstanding turnout and dedication, describing the parade as a testament to the bright future of the Ghana Armed Forces and the nation’s security services.

He also extended gratitude to Mr George Opare Addo, Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, as well as diplomats, religious and traditional leaders, and security personnel for attending and supporting the occasion.

The parade coincided with the 71st anniversary of the National Cadet Corps.

Dr. Boamah commended the Corps—from the basic to tertiary levels—and their leadership for their continued commitment to youth development and nation-building.

President Mahama, in a message delivered on his behalf, congratulated the youth, saying: “Ayeekoo to our youth for embracing discipline, loyalty, and volunteerism.”

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth empowerment through several flagship programmes, including:

The One Million Coders Programme

Edwumawura jobs initiative

Free first-year tertiary education scholarships under the "No Fees Stress" scheme

Free tertiary education for Persons With Disabilities

Free sanitary pad distribution for schoolgirls

The recruitment and enlistment of 12,000 personnel into the Ghana Armed Forces

In recognition of outstanding contributions to the development of the National Cadet Corps, six individuals were honoured with round-trip awards to the United Kingdom. The awardees are:

Mr. Samuel Happy Kwadzo Avevor

Mr. Ebenezer Graham Acquaah

Ing. Samuel Osei Asare

Rev. Gideon Nii Sackey

Hajia Katumi Nantogmah Attah

Mohammed Abdul Hakeem

Additionally, Cadet Senior Under Officer Adriel Samuel Papa Nii Tettey received a special commendation for exemplary service.