President John Mahama has revealed that this year's 68th Independence Day anniversary was celebrated with a significantly reduced budget compared to previous years.

He explained that a budget of GHC 20 million had been proposed for the event if it were to be hosted at the traditional venue, Independence Square in Accra.

However, due to the current economic challenges, the decision was made to scale down the celebration and hold it at the Jubilee House, resulting in an impressive 95% saving on the original budget.

“The State spent GHC 15 million on last year’s celebration in Koforidua and GHC 13.7 million for the previous year’s celebration in Ho in the Volta Region. This year, we were presented with an estimate of at least GHC 20 million to hold the event at Independence Square, similar to previous years. Yet, in a year when we are calling on all to sacrifice,” he said.

"Today's event will save us 95% of the estimated cost of the event," he added.

Read also: 68th Independence Day celebrations will cost only a tenth of 2024 amount – Kwakye Ofosu

This year, the government spent only GHC 2 million on the celebration, a stark contrast to the combined GHC 28.5 million spent over the last two years on Independence Day events held in Koforidua and Ho.

Mr. Mahama further emphasised that the country’s fiscal difficulties have led the government to prioritise the efficient use of available resources, ensuring that the Independence Day was celebrated with national pride while maintaining fiscal responsibility.