By Anyetei Joseph | November 11, 2025
The New Juaben South Municipal Assembly on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, joined the rest of the world in observing Remembrance Day at the historic Jackson Park in Koforidua, in a solemn and dignified ceremony that paid tribute to the brave men and women of Ghana's armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their nation.
Why Ghana Observes Remembrance Day
Ghana's connection to Remembrance Day is deeply rooted in history and runs far deeper than many people realise. During both the First World War from 1914 to 1918 and the Second World War from 1939 to 1945, thousands of Ghanaians, then citizens of the Gold Coast under British colonial rule, were enlisted and sent to fight in some of the most brutal and demanding theatres of war the world has ever seen.
These brave Gold Coast soldiers served under the Gold Coast Regiment of the Royal West Africa Frontier Force, fighting courageously in campaigns across East Africa, West Africa, Burma, the Middle East, and beyond. They left their homes, their families, and their communities to fight in wars that were not of their making, and many of them never returned. They gave their lives far from the shores of their homeland, in foreign lands, under conditions that were harsh, dangerous, and unforgiving.
When Ghana gained independence in 1957, the nation made a conscious and proud decision to continue observing Remembrance Day every year on November 11 as a mark of enduring respect and gratitude for all Ghanaian soldiers who served and sacrificed in those global conflicts. It is Ghana's way of saying to its fallen heroes, we have not forgotten you, your sacrifice was not in vain, and your names will be honoured for as long as this nation stands.
Over the decades, the observance has expanded beyond the World Wars to also honour all Ghanaian military personnel who have lost their lives in peacekeeping missions across Africa and the world, further deepening the meaning and significance of the day for a nation that has consistently contributed its sons and daughters to the cause of international peace and security.
A Solemn Gathering of Leaders and Community
The ceremony at Jackson Park brought together a distinguished gathering of leaders, dignitaries, and community members united in a shared moment of reflection, gratitude, and honour. Among those present were the Municipal Chief Executive of New Juaben South, Hon. Ransford Owusu Boakye, the Eastern Region Minister Hon. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, and Hon. Samuel Adongo, Municipal Chief Executive of the New Juaben North Municipal Assembly. Representatives of the New Juaben South Traditional Council, members of the security services, and cherished veterans who have served Ghana with distinction and dedication were also in attendance, lending the occasion the full weight of the community's respect and appreciation.
The atmosphere at Jackson Park was one of quiet solemnity and deep reverence as attendees paused to reflect on the enormous sacrifices made by generations of Ghanaian servicemen and servicewomen who gave their lives so that their fellow citizens could live in freedom, peace, and security. It was a moment that transcended politics, rank, and background, bringing everyone present together in a single, powerful act of remembrance and gratitude.
Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Ransford Owusu Boakye paid heartfelt tribute to the fallen heroes of Ghana's armed forces, acknowledging that the peace and stability the nation enjoys today did not come without a price. He called on all residents of New Juaben South to never take for granted the freedoms they enjoy, and to always remember with gratitude those who paid the highest price to secure them.
As the ceremony drew to a close at Jackson Park, the mood was one of solemn pride, deep gratitude, and renewed commitment to honouring the memory of those who served. The people of New Juaben South stood together that Tuesday morning not just as members of a municipality but as proud citizens of a nation that remembers, a nation that is grateful, and a nation that will never forget the price that was paid for its peace and freedom.
Lest we forget. 🇬🇭