Constitution Day in Ghana

Celebrated as a statutory public holiday in Ghana on the 7th of January annually, Constitution Day is a day that marks the enactment of the 1992 Constitution and the beginning of the Fourth Republic. It falls after the presidential and parliamentary elections and marks the beginning of the new parliament after each election year.

This is a holiday that’s traditionally celebrated with parades, political speeches, and a variety of other festivities. Because it’s a public holiday, it’s a day off for the general public and many schools, businesses, and government offices are closed on this day.

The History Of Constitution Day In Ghana

Prior to the 1992 Constitution, Ghana had three constitutions. However, these constitutions were made meaningless by various military coups that occurred throughout the years. On April 28, 1992,  the Constitution of Ghana was adopted, and it would officially be put into place on January 7, 1993. The holiday celebrating this constitution has been celebrated every year since.

Interesting Facts About Ghana

The following facts about Ghana are pretty interesting and we’d like to share them with everyone who is learning about Constitution Day in Ghana.

  • Polygamy is legal in Ghana.
  • Ghana became the first self-governing country on the African continent in 1957.
  • About half of Ghana speaks English and it’s one of the country’s official languages.
  • Ghana consists of lowland hills and is on the west coast of Africa.
  • In the early 19th century, the slave trade was banned in Ghana.
  • In 1661, Christianborg Castle was built by the Danish and became a center of the slave trade.
  • Ghana is the world’s 7th largest producer of gold.

Observing Constitution Day In Ghana

Around this holiday, many schools and libraries will have special educational programs that help students learn about the Constitution. There are also military parades and other special events observed by the people of Ghana on this day.

Some people use the day off to have meals with friends and families—meals that can include such foods as Jollof Rice, Tua Zaafi, fried fish, and Omo Tuo.

Where is it celebrated?
Ghana (Public holiday)
When is it?
This year (2023)
January 7 Saturday
Next year (2024)
January 7 Sunday
Last year (2022)
January 7 Friday