Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku
GhanaianNewsCanada | March 7, 2026
A Unique Way to Celebrate Ghana’s Independence
The 2026 Family Fun Run held at Lakeside Marina Park brought together hundreds of participants from families, schools, and corporate organizations to celebrate Ghana’s 69th Independence Day in a vibrant and healthy way.
The annual event, which took place on March 6, is part of the broader Run Ghana initiative, founded through the collaboration of the Kalmoni family and the Boateng family. The program has grown over the years into one of Ghana’s most recognized community fitness activities.
Speaking at the event, one of the founders, Alhajji Salah Kweku Kalmoni, Executive Director of Silver Star Tower., explained that the run was created with three important goals in mind.
“We do the Family Fun Run for three main purposes,” he said. “First, it is a fun way to celebrate Ghana’s Independence Day. Second, it is to celebrate family, and third, it is to celebrate good health.”
He added that the event reflects the spirit of unity and national pride that Independence Day represents.
Promoting Family Unity Through Sports
Unlike many competitive races that focus only on individual athletes, the Family Fun Run is designed to encourage family participation and bonding.
According to the organizers, nearly half of the awards presented each year are specifically dedicated to families, reinforcing the importance of family unity and shared experiences.
Awards categories include:
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Fastest family teams
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Top six family finishers
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Fastest children (12 years and under) for both boys and girls
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Top teenage runners (male and female)
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Fastest adult runners
In total, the event offers about 45 awards, making it one of the most inclusive running competitions in the country.
This structure allows parents, children, and extended family members to participate together rather than competing individually.
A National Event Beyond Lakeside
Although the event is hosted at Lakeside Estate in Accra, organizers emphasize that the run is meant for all Ghanaians across the country.
In addition to the Lakeside event, parallel runs are organized in collaboration with Japan Motors in several other cities, including:
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Kumasi
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Tamale
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Takoradi
This nationwide approach ensures that people in different regions of Ghana can participate in the celebration of health, family, and national pride.
Organizers say the event has gradually expanded over the years, attracting participants from diverse backgrounds, including professional runners, students, corporate workers, and community members.
Support from Corporate Sponsors
The continued success of the Family Fun Run has been made possible through the support of several corporate organizations and partners.
Sponsors for the 2026 edition included:
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Verna Mineral Water
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Magnitees
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Blue Skies
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Harmonia Insurance Brokers
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Silver Star Tower
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Japan Motors
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Lakeside Estate
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Oman FM
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Silver Star Auto
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And several other partners
These sponsors contribute through financial support, product sponsorships, and logistical assistance that help make the event accessible and enjoyable for participants.
Organizers acknowledged the important role these partners play in ensuring that the event continues to grow each year.
Virtual Participation Expands the Reach
In recent years, organizers have also introduced a Virtual Run, allowing participants who cannot attend physically to join the event from different locations.
Through this initiative, individuals can register, complete the run in their own communities, and still be part of the national celebration.
The virtual component has helped expand the reach of the event, particularly among members of the Ghanaian diaspora and people living outside Accra.
Looking Ahead to Ghana’s 70th Anniversary
With the successful completion of the 2026 Family Fun Run, organizers are already encouraging Ghanaians to prepare for next year’s edition, which will coincide with Ghana’s 70th Independence anniversary.
Alhaji Salakweko Kamuni called on individuals, families, and organizations to register early in January and February 2027 to participate in what promises to be an even bigger celebration.
“Next year will mark Ghana’s 70th birthday,” he said. “We invite everyone to come and celebrate with us through fun, family, and good health.”
For many participants, the event has become an annual tradition that combines patriotism, fitness, and community spirit.
As Ghana continues to celebrate its independence, initiatives like the Family Fun Run demonstrate how national pride can be expressed not only through ceremonies but also through activities that bring people together.
