Seventy-nine years after the founding of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) in 1947, the party that set Ghana on the path to independence is set to be honored with a commemorative pilgrimage.
According to Hackman Owusu-Agyeman, Chairman of the Council of Elders, the UGCC leaders risked everything to secure freedom for Ghanaians.
“Seventy nine years ago, in 1947, the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) was founded, setting in motion Ghana’s historic journey toward independence. Its leaders risked everything against colonial rule — imprisonment, exile, even death — yet they acted with courage and conviction,” he said.
“To liberate the energies of the people”
Mr. Owusu-Agyeman recalled the UGCC’s founding pledge and the personal sacrifices made by the “Big Six” and their colleagues.
“Their pledge was clear: ‘to liberate the energies of the people for the growth of a property owning democracy in this land, with the right to life, freedom, and justice… to enrich life, property, and liberty of each and every citizen.’ In pursuit of this vision, they offered their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor,” he stated.
Pilgrimage to Axim on August 4
To mark the anniversary, a commemorative road trip has been scheduled for August 4th, 2026 to Axim, where George Alfred “Pa” Grant, the UGCC’s founding financier, is buried.
“On August 4th, 2026, we will honor this legacy with a commemorative road trip to Axim, where Pa Grant, the UGCC’s founding financier, rests. This pilgrimage is more than a memorial; it is a call to rediscover the spirit of 1947 — a reminder that democracy thrives when citizens embrace sacrifice, unity, and principle,” Mr. Owusu-Agyeman said.
He explained that the journey is intended to reconnect present and future generations with the ideals that birthed the independence movement.
“Together, we can ensure that the legacy of the UGCC continues to inspire future generations,” he added.
The UGCC, _formed on August 4, 1947 in Saltpond, laid the political foundation for Ghana’s independence in 1957. Its motto and vision continue to influence Ghana’s_ democratic governance.
