A flag-raising and tree-planting ceremony was held at the forecourt of the State House in Accra to mark the 73rd Commonwealth Day celebration and the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the Commonwealth Secretariat. Celebrated under the theme “Together We Thrive,” this year’s event echoed the enduring spirit of unity, diversity, and shared values that bind the 56 member states of the Commonwealth of Nations.

Speaking at the event, the Minister for Defence, Hon Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah reaffirmed Ghana’s active engagement with the Commonwealth and its unwavering commitment to the organisation’s values. He emphasised that the theme, “Together We Thrive,” captures the essence of collective resilience in addressing pressing global challenges such as climate change, public health crises, economic inequality, and social injustice.

“The challenges we face as a global community require shared responsibility and collective action. Unity and cooperation remain our greatest strengths,” the Minister noted.

Dr Omane Boamah used the occasion to celebrate Ghana’s democratic credentials, citing the peaceful transfer of power following the 2024 general elections and the historic election of Ghana’s first female Vice President, H.E. Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, as a significant milestone in the nation’s democratic and gender representation journey. He further called on Commonwealth nations to rally behind Ghana’s candidate, Hon Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, as the next Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, describing her vision as a pathway to progress and prosperity for all member states.

The Minister also commended the Commonwealth Secretariat and its member states for their continuous support for Ghana’s democratic development especially through technical assistance and the deployment of election observers. He assured the gathering of Ghana’s continued efforts toward sustainable development, environmental protection, climate action, and equitable access to essential services including health, education, food, and shelter.

Turning to global affairs, he urged the Commonwealth to remain a stabilising force amid growing geopolitical tensions by adapting to global trends and addressing the evolving needs of its members.

The British High Commissioner to Ghana, HE Harriet Thompson, read the message from His Majesty King Charles III, highlighting the enduring strength of the Commonwealth as a diverse global family. She praised the role of Commonwealth leadership gatherings in fostering collaboration and encouraged member states to view their differences not as obstacles but as opportunities for learning and innovation.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Commonwealth Secretary-General, HE Baroness Patricia Scotland, the Ghana Head of Mission for the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, Mr. John Apea, described the Commonwealth as a “living testament to the power of friendship, unity, and purpose.” He emphasised that beyond shared history and language, it is the deep-rooted commitment to peace, justice, and sustainable development that unites the member nations. Baroness Scotland’s message reflected both pride and hope, as she prepares to hand over leadership. She expressed her confidence in the Commonwealth’s ability to continue building a future grounded in shared values and common purpose.

As part of the ceremony, Hon Dr Omane Boamah hoisted the Ghana flag, symbolising national sovereignty and pride, while HE Harriet Thompson raised the Commonwealth flag, representing shared values and unity. A tree-planting ceremony followed, symbolising growth, resilience, and the deepening roots of cooperation among Commonwealth nations. It also highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship which is an increasingly central value in the Commonwealth agenda.

The event was attended by the Greater Accra Minister, Hon Linda Akweley Ocloo, Heads of Commonwealth Missions, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Traditional Leaders, students and officials from both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defence, Senior Officers, Officers and men of the Ghana Armed Forces.