The Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) has announced plans to commemorate Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary with a clean-up exercise instead of the usual march-past celebrations.
The exercise, scheduled for Thursday, March 6, will take place at the Ho Airport at 0600 hours in collaboration with Zoomlion Ghana Limited, the Ho Metropolitan Assembly, the Environmental Health Department, and staff of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL).
Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, who disclosed this to the Ghana News Agency said the choice of the Airport was strategically agreed because of complaints of under staffing and other challenges, which rendered the airport environment unkempt and therefore the VRCC thought it wise to lend a support and create the necessary awareness.
He said all the 18 Municipal and District Assemblies are entitled to mark the Day with clean-up exercises across the region and appealed to all identifiable groups, such as market associations, drivers’ unions, schools and especially the entire population to undertake the clean-up exercises.
He emphasised that beyond the organised activity at the airport, citizens should take personal responsibility by cleaning their homes and surroundings to maintain a clean and healthy environment.
Mr Gunu explained that this initiative aligned with President John Mahama’s directive to reduce the cost of organizing Independence Day celebrations while promoting environmental cleanliness.
“We know that some places will hold the usual march-past to commemorate the day, but for the VRCC, we have chosen to focus on a clean-up exercise to reflect our commitment to cleanliness and community service,” he said.
Mr Gunu urged the public to join the VRCC-led exercise at Ho Airport, encouraging all individuals, businesses, and institutions to participate in keeping Ho and its surroundings clean.
“Everyone is welcome to join us at the airport for the regional clean-up exercise. We believe this is a meaningful way to celebrate Ghana’s independence by fostering a culture of cleanliness and environmental responsibility,” he said.
The initiative reflects the growing national effort to incorporate sustainable and cost-effective activities into Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations, ensuring that the spirit of patriotism extends beyond ceremonial events into practical, community-driven efforts.
By Michael Foli Jackidy, GNA.
