'Make the next 60 years even better': Mahama in independence message

Former President John Mahama has charged Ghanaians to make the next 60 years "even better" in his Independence Day message.

Today March 6, 2017 marks Ghana’s 60th Independence Day.

And according to the Ghana at 60 planning committee, "Ghanaians should expect a very modest and a very amazing" celebration.

Speaking to Joy FM on Monday, Jefferson Sackey, spokesman for the planning committee noted that today's event has been planned carefully taking into account the country's economic challenges.

"We strongly believe that this a time to reflect as a nation, where we are coming from, how far we've come as a nation, and where we want to go," he said.

He added: "And so considering the theme which is 'mobilising for Ghana's future' we've carefully selected very interesting programme line-up that would at the end of the day signify what we represent as a nation."

He added that each of the 10 regions is going to be represented at Independence Square in a special cultural ceremony.

He confirmed the arrival and participation of Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe and Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé.

He added that "14 countries in all are going to join us including the special envoy sent by Pope Francis himself are all in this country."

Beyond the parade, Mr Sackey said one significant thing that will happen today is the lighting of the perpetual flame.

This will be given "to one significant Ghanaian," he added. "In fact Ghanaian super boxer or should I say superstar Professor Azumah Nelson is the one who is going to bear the very first independence anniversary touch."