September 21: Long Live Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day

Today, Saturday, September 21, marks Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day, a national holiday established through the leadership of President Akufo-Addo and the 8th Parliament of Ghana’s 4th Republic.

This historic recognition is the first time a Ghanaian leader has been honoured in such a manner, but it is not the greatest tribute to Kwame Nkrumah’s immense contributions to Ghana’s founding and development. True homage is paid not through words alone but through impactful actions. The most meaningful eulogy is demonstrated by continuing the work of the celebrated hero.

President Akufo-Addo has honored Nkrumah’s legacy by introducing the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy, which ensures that students remain in school until they are 17 or 18, effectively making secondary education a part of basic education. This follows in the footsteps of former President Kufuor, who also championed national development through the National Youth Employment Programme and the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), ensuring affordable healthcare for all Ghanaians.

Contrary to claims that President Akufo-Addo seeks to diminish Nkrumah’s legacy through the creation of this memorial day, this celebration sets Nkrumah apart as one of Ghana’s most significant figures. His contributions to the nation’s history and founding are undeniable, and this holiday highlights his profound impact.

Through President Akufo-Addo’s diplomatic efforts, Ghana now hosts the headquarters of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), realizing Nkrumah’s Pan-African dream of an African Common Market. Additionally, initiatives like Planting for Food and Jobs and One District, One Factory (1D1F) under Akufo-Addo’s leadership echo Nkrumah’s focus on industrialization and agricultural development.

As we commemorate this day, Nkrumaists are reminded that the best way to honor Nkrumah is to embrace his core message: “organization decides everything.” Those who feel that Nkrumah’s ideological opponents have best honored his memory should organize and work towards political power to fulfill their vision.

In this spirit, may we continue to draw inspiration from Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, recognizing both his accomplishments and his human imperfections. Let us celebrate his legacy with humility, while also appreciating the efforts of President Akufo-Addo in continuing to advance Ghana in a way that mirrors Nkrumah’s visionary leadership.

Long live Ghana, long live the enduring memory of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and long live the contributions of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

James Kwabena Bomfeh Jnr., Ph.D. (Development Studies); Nkrumaist and former Acting General Secretary, CPP.