Chairman of the NPP Council of Elders, Hackman Owusu-Agyeman
The Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Council of Elders, Hackman Owusu-Agyeman, has called on Ghanaians to honour the sacrifices and vision of the founders of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) as the country marks the 79th anniversary of the formation of the historic nationalist movement.
As part of activities to commemorate the milestone on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, Mr. Owusu-Agyeman is inviting patriots, students, historians, political leaders and citizens from across the country to join a commemorative road trip to Axim, the final resting place of George Alfred “Paa” Grant, the renowned financier of the UGCC and a key figure in Ghana’s independence struggle.
Theme
Themed “A Call to Courage, Freedom and Renewal,” the celebration seeks to reconnect Ghanaians with the ideals of courage, sacrifice, freedom and justice that inspired the pioneers of the independence movement.
Mr. Owusu-Agyeman said the establishment of the UGCC in 1947 marked a defining moment in Ghana’s history, as its founders took a bold stand against colonial rule and laid the foundation for the country’s eventual independence.
He noted that the founders endured immense personal sacrifices, including persecution, imprisonment and hardship, because of their commitment to securing liberty and a better future for generations to come.
According to him, the vision of the UGCC remains relevant today, particularly in the need to protect democratic values and promote responsible citizenship.
The August 4 pilgrimage to Axim will include a visit to Paa Grant’s grave, patriotic activities, music, reflection and moments of unity as participants celebrate the legacy of the men and women who contributed to Ghana’s liberation journey.
Commemorative
Mr. Owusu-Agyeman described the trip as more than a commemorative event, saying it represents a national call to remember the sacrifices of the founders and renew commitment to defending democracy.
“Remember the Founders. Sacrifice for Liberty and Justice. Defend Democracy Today. Stand Against Tyranny,” the organisers said, emphasising the need for citizens to uphold the principles upon which Ghana’s democratic journey was built.
The UGCC was founded in 1947 by leading nationalists, including Paa Grant, Dr. J.B. Danquah, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Edward Akufo-Addo, Emmanuel Obetsebi-Lamptey and others, whose efforts set the stage for the independence struggle.
As Ghana reflects on 79 years since the birth of the UGCC, the journey to Axim is expected to serve as a tribute to Paa Grant and the founding generation, while inspiring renewed patriotism, unity and commitment to the defence of democracy.
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