The forecourt of Jubilee House, the seat of Ghana’s government, is set to host the country’s 69th Independence Anniversary parade on March 6, 2026, the Information Services Department (ISD) has confirmed.
This marks the second consecutive year the national celebration will be held at the presidency, following a directive aimed at reducing the financial burden of the event.
In an official notice dated February 24, the Acting Director of the ISD, Dr. Winnifred N. Mahama, outlined the arrangements for media coverage and called for accreditation applications from media houses.
Streamlined Celebrations and Cost Efficiency
The decision to hold the parade at Jubilee House aligns with government efforts to practice fiscal prudence. Last year’s 68th Independence celebration at the same venue cost approximately GH¢1.5 million. Officials had previously noted that organizing the event at the traditional venue, Black Star Square, would have cost an estimated GH¢15 million.
The Black Star Square, completed in 1961, has historically been the centerpiece of Ghana’s Independence Day festivities, hosting military displays, cultural performances, and parades by schoolchildren for decades.
Media Accreditation and Coverage Guidelines
Due to space constraints at the venue, the ISD has announced strict protocols for media coverage. Each media organization will be granted only one accreditation slot, which will be non-transferable. Media houses that already possess presidential accreditation may deploy their approved reporters to cover the event without submitting a new application through this specific channel.
Applications must be submitted via an official letter from the media house, detailing the names and contact details of the assigned journalist and crew, and must reach the ISD by 5:00 pm on Friday, February 27, 2026.
Operational Protocols for Journalists
All accredited personnel are required to adhere to a formal or business attire dress code. Photographers and videographers must report to the venue by 6:45 am on the day of the event for security screening and will be restricted to designated media zones.
To maintain the ceremony’s decorum, movement will be prohibited during the national anthem, the presidential address, and other key ceremonial segments.
The ISD has also issued specific technical guidelines:
· Equipment: Only professional cameras and video equipment will be permitted. The use of drones or any aerial devices is strictly forbidden without prior written authorization.
· Restrictions: Access to the presidential dais and the immediate Red Security Zone is reserved for officially assigned personnel. Live streaming via personal or mobile devices will not be allowed.
· Broadcast Feed: A live video feed will be provided by the Presidency Communications team in collaboration with Ghana Television (GTV) for broadcasters. Media houses planning to carry the event live must indicate this in their accreditation applications.
The government encourages media houses to submit their applications promptly to secure a slot for what is expected to be a historic, yet modest, celebration of Ghana’s independence.
