73rd Commonwealth Day commemorated - Nations entreated to strengthen cooperation

The Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has entreated Commonwealth nations to strengthen cooperation and unite to overcome emerging global challenges. 

“The challenges we face as a global community, from climate change to economic inequality, require a united response. Together, we can build a future that is inclusive, equitable and prosperous for all,” he said.

He was speaking at a flag-raising ceremony in Accra yesterday to commemorate the 73rd Commonwealth Day.

Speaking on the theme: “Together we thrive,” Dr Boamah said the strength of the Commonwealth lay in its commitment to democracy, sustainable development and mutual support among member states.

Event

Present at the ceremony were the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Akweley Ocloo; the Head of Mission, Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, John Obeng Apea; members of the diplomatic corps, traditional leaders, students and the military, among others.

As the anthems of Ghana and the Commonwealth were being played, Dr Boamah and the British High Commissioner raised the Ghana and Commonwealth flags respectively to symbolise the country's commitment to the ideals of the Commonwealth.

Both of them also planted trees at the forecourt of the State House where the ceremony was held to signify the growth and unity of the Commonwealth.

It also represented Ghana's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability in line with Commonwealth values. 

Sustainable devt

Dr Boamah also said that the government would continue to work closely with member states to promote peace, democracy and sustainable development.

He said that the successful 2024 general election reaffirmed the country’s dedication to democratic governance.

The minister added that the peaceful transition of power and the election of the nation’s first female Vice-President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, marked a significant step forward in gender representation and political inclusion.

“Our democracy continues to serve as a beacon of stability in Africa. The election of our first female Vice-President is not only a victory for Ghana but also an inspiration to women and girls across the continent,” he said.

The minister commended the Commonwealth Secretariat and its member states for their continued support in strengthening Ghana’s electoral process through technical assistance and election observation.

Dr Boamah acknowledged some initiatives of the Commonwealth, including the Commonwealth Blue Charter, and Climate Finance Access Hub, which he said had played a crucial role in supporting less developed member states.

“Our ability to thrive depends on our willingness to support one another and embrace innovative solutions,” he added.

Collaboration

The British High Commissioner to Ghana, Harriet Thompson, who delivered a statement on behalf of the British Monarch, King Charles III, who is the Head of the Commonwealth, also called for collective efforts to tackle modern global challenges.

She said that working together was crucial to the restoration of peace, human rights and environmental sustainability.

Ms Thompson also urged member states to prioritise actions that protected the future of younger generations.

“As we mark this Commonwealth Day together, there is no more important task than to restore the disrupted harmony of our entire planet,” she added.

Ms Thompson recalled the historical significance of the contribution of Commonwealth nations during World War II, acknowledging the sacrifices made by more than 1.5 million men and women in support of the UK and its allies.