Accra, March 7, GNA – The Mayor Simon Yu of the City of Prince George, British Columbia (BC), Canada, has proclaimed March 6, 2025, to be observed as “Ghana Independence Day” in the city.
The city officials raised the Ghana National Flag, the first African flag in the city, in honour of the Independence Day celebration, declaring March 6, every year “Ghana Day.”
Prince George is the centre of business, education, health, and culture for northern British Columbia and services a rural population of about 300,000.
The region’s economic growth and diversification strategies are creating outstanding opportunities for investors, employers, and employees.
In a proclamation notice by the Mayor said on March 6, 1957, Ghana became the first sub-Saharan African nation to achieve independence, marking a historic moment of triumph, self-determination, and national pride.
He said the people of Ghana, through resilience and unity, have continued to uphold the values of democracy, peace, and progress, making significant contributions to global culture, politics, and economic development.
He said the Ghanaian community in Prince George played an essential role in the cultural diversity and enrichment of the region, demonstrating excellence in various fields and fostering strong community bonds.
The Mayor said the Ghana Association of Prince George was committed to preserving and promoting the rich heritage, traditions, and contributions of Ghana and its people through education, cultural programs, and community engagement.
Mr Yu said the celebration of Ghana’s Independence Day served as an opportunity to reflect on the journey of the nation, honour its pioneers, and inspire future generations to uphold the ideals of unity, freedom, and justice.
“We call upon all members, friends, and supporters to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion and reaffirming our commitment to the continued growth and prosperity of Ghana and the Ghanaian diaspora,” he added.
The city itself is the 4th largest in British Columbia and has a population of approximately 82,300 local residents and a service centre for nearly 320,000.
Mr Eddie Ameh Snr, the President of the Ghana Association Prince George, said, ”We are very happy and grateful to the Mayor and the people of Prince George for recognizing them declaring a Ghana Day.”
He said this showed the city’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equality.
“This will encourage the community to do more to ensure the wellbeing of our members and the larger good of Prince George,” he said.
Mr Ameh said the Association was poised to take this community to the next level by exploring ways to get a community centre named Ghana House, where they could teach their younger generation about their heritage.
“This will include language, culture, and history so they don’t forget about their history,” he added.
Mr Jacob Madjitey, a Patron of the Association, who had lived in the city for 33 years, said the flag raising was an important thing for them because this was the first time such activity was done in the city.
He said the ceremony showed that the Ghanaian population was growing and how Prince George was welcoming and able to integrate them into their society.
The Association donated an Adinkra symbol to the city.
GNA