Ghana’s Parliament has approved the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introducing notable adjustments to the country’s calendar of national observances.
The bill restores July 1 as Republic Day, recognising the date Ghana became a republic in 1960, a significant milestone in the nation’s democratic journey. Additionally, September 21, the birthday of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has been re-designated as Founder’s Day, honouring his enduring legacy in Ghana’s independence struggle. As a result, August 4, which had previously been observed as Founders’ Day, has been removed from the list of statutory holidays.
In a move widely praised by religious leaders and civil society groups, the bill also introduces a new holiday for the Muslim community named “Shaqq Day”, to be observed the day after Eid-ul-Fitr. The new observance acknowledges the spiritual importance of the Ramadan season and provides space for reflection and celebration among Muslim families across the country.
The bill also empowers the President to reschedule holidays that fall midweek (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays) to the nearest Friday or Monday to improve national productivity and ensure smoother observance across public and private institutions.
Lawmakers and citizens alike have welcomed the changes, describing the new structure as a step toward greater historical consistency, inclusivity, and convenience for all Ghanaians.
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