Ghanaian Officials Face Intense Scrutiny Over GH¢21 Million Renovation of Vacant Independence Day Venue

Ghana's Public Accounts Committee investigates the GH¢21 million spent on Black Star Square as Independence Day celebrations move to Jubilee House to save costs.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 1, 2026, 5:51 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from YEN.com.gh

Public Accounts Committee Probes Multi Million Cedi Renovation

The Office of Government Machinery has come under fire following disclosures regarding a GH¢21 million expenditure on the renovation of Black Star Square. Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, Chief Director Abubakar Wayo confirmed the substantial cost associated with the iconic venue, also known as Independence Square. The probe stems from public concern over why such a significant sum was allocated to a facility that did not ultimately host the 67th Independence Day parade as originally intended. Members of the committee questioned the fiscal responsibility of the transaction, given the subsequent decision to shift national celebrations to more modest venues.

Contractual Obligations Cited as Barrier to Project Halting

In his testimony, Abubakar Wayo explained that the GH¢21 million contract had already been awarded and initiated before a higher authority decided to change the venue of the 2024 celebration. Wayo maintained that his office did not possess the legal or administrative authority to halt the project midway, as the contract specifically bound the government to the renovation of the Black Star Square. According to Wayo, the project was directed by a higher authority to proceed regardless of the change in the national event's location. This defense suggests a disconnect between the procurement of infrastructure services and the strategic planning of national ceremonial events.

Facility Repurposed for Presidential Inaugural Ceremonies

As the focus of the renovation shifted away from Independence Day, the government pivoted to preparing Black Star Square for the presidential inauguration. Wayo noted that while the initial intent was for the 67th anniversary, the facility’s upgrades were utilized for the transition of power. Since its completion in 1961, the square has served as the primary site for civic and military displays. However, the revelation that the renovation continued despite the change in plans has sparked a debate regarding whether the facility could have been maintained at a lower cost or if the inaugural requirements justified the total GH¢21 million price tag.