The Ministry of the Interior has declared Monday, September 21, 2026, a statutory public holiday to commemorate Founder’s Day.
In a notice dated September 14, 2026, the Ministry informed the public that the day will be observed as a public holiday throughout the country.
Significance of Founder’s Day
Founder’s Day gives Ghanaians an opportunity to recognize the individuals and movements whose efforts contributed to the country’s struggle for independence and the establishment of the Ghanaian state.
The day is closely associated with Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first Prime Minister and later President, who played a leading role in the country’s independence movement.
September 21 is also significant as it marks the birthday of Dr Nkrumah.
Changes to Founder’s Day
The observance of Founder’s Day has changed over the years.
Under the Public Holidays (Amendment) Act, 2019, August 4 was designated as Founder’s Day, while September 21 was observed as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day.
However, a subsequent amendment in 2025 changed the arrangement, with September 21 now designated as Founder’s Day.
The Ministry of the Interior’s 2026 public holiday calendar accordingly lists September 21 as Founder’s Day and a statutory public holiday.
Public Holiday on September 21
With Monday, September 21, 2026, declared a statutory public holiday, the Ministry has directed that the day be observed accordingly across the country.
The occasion also provides an opportunity for Ghanaians to reflect on the country’s journey to independence and the sacrifices, political struggles, and contributions of the individuals and movements that shaped Ghana’s history.
