Ghana’s Historic NYE Fireworks Streamed Live on BBC

Ghana made history on 31 December 2023 as Countdown Africa became the first African New Year’s Eve fireworks show streamed live on the BBC from Accra’s Black Star Square.

The midnight display lit the sky in bold red, gold and green, while thunderous drums and vibrant dances echoed across the venue, placing Ghana alongside London, Sydney and New York in the global countdown.

The broadcast attracted a distinguished international audience, with guests such as AJ Akua Johnson from the United States, UK singer Nay Nay and British High Commissioner Christopher Rogg joining the celebration. Their presence underscored Ghana’s growing influence as a cultural and creative hub on the world stage.

“This is about positioning Africa on a platform where we are often under‑represented during global New Year’s Eve celebrations,” Akua Kufuor, CEO of AKvance and founder of Countdown Africa, said. “Countdown Africa creates an opportunity for private‑sector partnerships to drive visibility, investment and economic growth.”

Prince Anthony Bart Appiah, board member of the Ghana Tourism Authority, added, “Countdown Africa is more than a New Year’s Eve celebration. It is Africa counting forward together at Black Star Square, the birthplace of freedom, proving that Ghana can unite the continent in one moment, one voice and one future.”

London‑based diaspora member Andrea Osei‑Smith shared, “Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Ghana brought family and friends together from around the world – it was the best possible way to begin the year.”

Local resident Kwasi Sarpong noted that the event was designed for everyday Ghanaians, saying, “Countdown Africa reflects our culture while offering something for everyone.”

Elliot Dadey, CEO of the KGL Foundation, explained the partnership’s value: “Our shared goals around community impact, cultural development and a vibrant creative economy made this collaboration a natural fit.”

The celebration has already boosted Ghana’s global profile, showcasing African storytelling, music, fashion and dance, and instilling a collective optimism as the continent steps confidently into the new year.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE