The sharp reduction in Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations not only reflected the government’s fiscal discipline but also delivered a financial blow to small businesses that rely on national events for revenue.
From hawkers selling national flags to food vendors near major venues, traders who typically experience a business boom during the annual festivities found themselves struggling with low sales.
Many vendors had stocked up in anticipation of the event, only to be met with low turnout due to the government’s decision to hold the celebration at Jubilee House with a limited audience.
Some traders reported losses as unsold goods piled up, while others expressed frustration over the lack of alternative arrangements to support informal businesses that depend on national gatherings.
The High Street Journal spoke to three hawkers in Accra who expressed their disappointment over the scaled-down celebrations.
Cynthia Quarcoo sells variety of snacks at Makola Market in Accra. She lamented the turn of events for this year’s celebrations. “Independence Day is usually one of our best days for business,” said a vendor who sells snacks near the usual parade grounds. “This year, there is nothing—no crowd, no sales.”
Another trader, who specializes in Ghanaian flags and memorabilia, Jemima Asare shared a similar sentiment. “I stocked up on items expecting the usual rush, but demand was almost non-existent. It’s a big loss for us.” She spoke in her local dialect.
A third vendor, Fuseina Moro, who sells beverages, noted that public events like Independence Day provide seasonal relief for small businesses. She called on government to expand the celebrations in the coming years “These events help us make ends meet. Without them, we struggle.” She lamented.
The usually vibrant Black Star Square, which has traditionally hosted Independence Day parades, stood nearly empty this year. Instead of the lively crowds and colorful displays that typically characterize the event, only a handful of onlookers, including some tourists, gathered—many appearing disappointed by the subdued atmosphere.
Meanwhile, at the Jubilee House, where the official national celebration was taking place, access was tightly restricted. The high-security nature of the venue meant that small businesses, including hawkers and food vendors who typically thrive on large public gatherings, were completely shut out. With no alternative trading space provided, many vendors were left disoriented and frustrated, struggling to make up for the lost sales that such national events usually guarantee.
For small-scale entrepreneurs, national events often provide a seasonal economic boost, and the sudden scale-down underscores the need for policymakers to consider the broader economic impact of austerity measures.
