Stories and facts
After enduring centuries of colonialism, slavery, and the harsh realities that shaped the African continent, the dawn of independence began to break across several nations.
This hard-won liberation, achieved through immense sacrifice and resilience, saw Ghana emerge as one of the first to embrace the light of freedom.
The declaration of Ghana as a republic on July 1, 1960, was a significant milestone in the country's journey toward full sovereignty and self-governance. This moment marked Ghana’s transition from a constitutional monarchy, where the British monarch was the ceremonial head of state, to a republic with its president as the head of state.
Here are the key highlights of this historic event:
Background
Independence in 1957: Ghana, previously the Gold Coast, gained independence from British colonial rule on March 6, 1957, becoming the first sub-Saharan African nation to achieve this feat. However, it remained a member of the British Commonwealth, with Queen Elizabeth II as the ceremonial head of state.
Push for Full Sovereignty: After independence, there was a growing desire among Ghanaians for complete self-rule, free from any vestiges of colonial influence. This led to a referendum in 1960 to decide whether Ghana should become a republic.
The 1960 Referendum
The referendum held in April 1960 asked citizens to vote on:
Whether Ghana should become a republic.
Whether Kwame Nkrumah, the then Prime Minister and leader of the Convention People's Party (CPP), should become the first president.
The proposal received overwhelming support from the electorate, paving the way for the declaration of the Republic.
Republic Day
On July 1, 1960, Ghana was officially declared a republic. This day marked:
The end of the Queen's role as head of state.
The establishment of a republican constitution.
Kwame Nkrumah as Ghana’s first president.
The event was celebrated nationwide with parades, cultural festivities, and a sense of pride and accomplishment among the citizens.
Significance of Republic Day
Consolidation of Independence: It represented the final break from colonial influence and affirmed Ghana's sovereignty.
Symbol of African Unity: As a republic, Ghana became a symbol of hope and inspiration for other African nations fighting for independence.
National Holiday: Republic Day was celebrated annually until it was later merged with Founders' Day celebrations under recent reforms.
Ghana's declaration as a republic underscored the country's commitment to self-determination, people-led governance, and leadership in the Pan-African movement.
Watch the video below showing the first Republic Day in Ghana with Dr Kwame Nkrumah
