President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana called for peace and unity during his address at the Eid-ul-Adha celebrations, emphasizing the importance of these values in fostering national development and harmony. The celebration, which took place on June 28, saw Muslims across the country gathering for prayers and festivities to mark one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar.
In his message, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the spiritual significance of Eid-ul-Adha, which commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. He urged Ghanaians to emulate the Prophet’s example by embracing selflessness, devotion, and unity.
“The essence of Eid-ul-Adha goes beyond the ritual of sacrifice. It teaches us about dedication, obedience, and the spirit of giving,” said President Akufo-Addo. “As we celebrate this holy day, let us commit ourselves to peace and unity, which are essential for our country’s progress.”
The president also addressed the current economic challenges facing the nation, reassuring citizens that the government is working diligently to improve the situation. He called for patience and cooperation from all Ghanaians as the government implements policies aimed at economic recovery and growth.
“We are aware of the difficulties many Ghanaians are facing, but I assure you that we are making every effort to restore stability and growth to our economy,” Akufo-Addo said. “In these times, let us remain united and supportive of one another.”
The Eid-ul-Adha celebrations saw Muslims attending mosques for special prayers, followed by the slaughtering of sacrificial animals, a practice rooted in Islamic tradition. The meat from these sacrifices is typically shared among family, friends, and the less fortunate, reinforcing the values of charity and community support.
Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, also delivered a message during the celebrations, echoing the president’s call for peace and unity. He emphasized the need for tolerance and mutual respect among different religious and ethnic groups in Ghana.
“We must always remember that our strength lies in our diversity,” Sheikh Sharubutu said. “Let us continue to live in harmony and work together for the common good of our country.”
The celebrations were marked by colorful events and communal gatherings, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Ghana’s Muslim community. Many non-Muslims also joined in the festivities, demonstrating the nation’s spirit of inclusivity and shared joy.
Local leaders and dignitaries attended various events across the country, reiterating their commitment to fostering peace and development. They emphasized the importance of education, healthcare, and social welfare in building a prosperous and stable society.
In his closing remarks, President Akufo-Addo extended his best wishes to all Muslims celebrating Eid-ul-Adha and urged all Ghanaians to uphold the values of peace, unity, and compassion in their daily lives.
“As we celebrate Eid-ul-Adha, let us renew our commitment to these values, which are the foundation of our nation’s strength and resilience,” he concluded.
The Eid-ul-Adha celebrations in Ghana served as a reminder of the country’s rich cultural diversity and the enduring importance of unity and peace in achieving national development.
Source of this article: ghanaweb.com
