First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, lighting the beacon
First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, has joined leaders around the world in celebrating the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth the second, Head of the Commonwealth.
At a ceremony in Accra, the First Lady lit a beacon in commemoration of the Platinum Jubilee of Queen.
She said there is a long and unbroken tradition in Britain of celebrating Royal Jubilees, Weddings and Coronations with the lighting of beacons.
“Since 1897, beacons have been lit to celebrate significant milestones of the British monarchy.
Today 2nd June 2022, is another unique milestone- the Queen’s 70th year as monarch. No previous British monarch has achieved this feat. That is the reason why more than 1,500 beacons will be lit, throughout the United Kingdom, and one in each of the capital cities of the Commonwealth countries. I am very thrilled to light the beacon for Ghana this evening,” she said.
Mrs. Akufo-Addo said the symbolism of lighting the beacon of the Jubilee celebration in Ghana is the development, contribution and empowerment of women, and the youth.
She said investing in women’s economic empowerment, sets a direct path towards gender equality, poverty eradication and inclusive economic growth.
Investing also in the youth ensures that, she added positions Ghana to be competitive with the best in the world.
“When women and our youth win, we all win. Let’s continue to provide them with the opportunities to learn, take action and effectively empower and positively prepare them for the future. With all of us working together we can make the change that is needed for our women and youth,” she added.
By Jamila Akweley Okertchiri