Bono East celebrates Independence Day with football games

The Bono East Regional Coordinating Council organized inter-school sports competitions at Ohene Ameyaw Park in Techiman to mark Ghana's 69th Independence Day anniversary.

Pupils from multiple circuits within the municipality took part in football contests, forming a key component of the independence commemorations.

Among the dignitaries present were Bono East Regional Minister Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi, Techiman South Member of Parliament Hon. Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, and Techiman South Municipal Chief Executive Hon. Kwaku Adjei-Mensah.

Also in attendance were officials from the Bono East Regional Coordinating Council and Techiman South Municipal Assembly, together with representatives of the Techiman Traditional Council.

The programme was presided over by the Bono East Council of State Member and Paramount Chief of Yeji, Pimapim Yaw Kagbrese V.

In his address to the audience, Regional Minister Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi described the occasion as a moment for Ghanaians to look back on the nation's path while recommitting to progress and unity.

“Today marks more than just a celebration of our independence; it invites us to reflect on our shared history, the challenges we have faced, and the optimism that continues to unite us. This year's theme, ‘Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope,’ captures our common vision for a more prosperous tomorrow.” He remarked.

The Minister paid special tribute to Ghana's founding leaders, acknowledging their immense sacrifices in winning self-rule.

“We honour the brave men and women who struggled tirelessly so that we could enjoy freedom, unity, and self-determination as a sovereign state. Their vision and courage remain the strong foundation of modern Ghana.” He added.

HE called on all citizens to preserve that heritage through collective effort, dedication, and harmony.

“As we look ahead, let us pay tribute to their memory by embracing perseverance, solidarity, and diligent labour to keep both our region and the entire nation advancing steadily.” He said.

Speaking to journalists afterwards, Techiman South MP Hon. Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah advocated for a broader, non-partisan national dialogue to speed up Ghana's growth.

“After nearly seven decades of independence, the time has come to seriously evaluate our starting point, our current position, and the direction we want to take as a nation. Successive administrations and leaders have each played their role since our pioneers secured our freedom, yet when we compare ourselves to certain other countries at 69 years, many have achieved far greater strides.” 

He explained the urgency of moving away from intense partisan divisions toward inclusive, development-focused discussions.

“The moment calls for a genuine national conversation that rises above party lines. We must prioritize talks centred on building the nation rather than pursuing narrow political gains. For 69 years, politics has dominated much of our energy, with every group getting its chance to lead and implement ideas for Ghana's benefit.

Hon. Korsah urged citizens to ramp up their commitment and embrace greater unity to change the

 country's trajectory.

“Now is the time to intensify our work and move faster. Real transformation will only happen when we tone down excessive politicking and adopt an approach that unites us, focusing our collective energy on practical steps to reshape Ghana's future for the better.”

Representing the Paramount Chief of Techiman Traditional Area, Oseadeeyo Akumfi Ameyaw IV, the Twimeahene and Sanaahene of the Techiman Traditional Council, Nana Ankama Frimpong, appealed to all Ghanaians to stay united and preserve the nation for coming generations. 

He reminded the gathering to always remember and respect the heroes who fought for liberation.

“Everyone understands why we are assembled here today. At 69 years since independence, this remains a profoundly significant milestone for our beloved Ghana.” He said.

“We must never forget to honour those who battled courageously to deliver independence to us.”

Nana Ankama Frimpong highlighted the high price paid for freedom and the responsibility to defend it. He further encouraged citizens to set aside political rivalries and join hands for national advancement.

“This land belongs to us all—it was secured through the blood and sacrifices of our ancestors. We therefore have a duty to guard and protect it jealously, not just for ourselves but for those who will follow after us.”

“Let us rise above partisan divisions and stand together as one people, always putting the nation's welfare first. Every one of us must play our part in driving Ghana's development forward.”

The sports programme featured exciting football fixtures between school circuits, generating lively competition and enthusiasm among the young athletes.

In the results, Nkwaeso B Circuit claimed top honours in both the boys’ and girls’ under-15 categories, while Nsuta B Circuit triumphed in the boys’ under-13 division.