By Ghana News
News Ghana, Latest Updates and Breaking News of Ghana, Ike Dzokpo, https://www.newsghana.com.gh/goldstar-air-celebrates-ghanas-national-day-of-prayer-and-thanksgiving/
Ghanaian and United States registered company Goldstar Air, a private internationalairline with an issued Air Carrier Licence (ACL/N-SCH No. 0239) from the Ghana CivilAviation Authority (GCAA) to operate passenger and cargo flights across West Africaand intercontinental routes, is joining Ghanaians in celebrating the National Day ofPrayer and Thanksgiving, traditionally known as Republic Day. This day represents apivotal moment of spiritual reflection, national unity, and recommitment to moral,economic, and cultural renewal. In a country where faith plays a central role in the fabricof society, the day stands as a collective call for divine guidance and blessings for thenation.
Goldstar Air’s celebration of this sacred day reflects its deep alignment with Ghanaianvalues and its commitment to promoting a strong national identity. An identity thattranscends the aviation industry and supports the airline’s ambitious Project $1 Trillionforeign reserves initiative. As the “wings of Ghana and belly of America” and a symbolof national progress, Goldstar Air acknowledges the importance of divine intervention inthe development of the country, the aviation sector, and the people it serves. The NationalDay of Prayer is also an annual day of observance designated by the United StatesCongress and held on the first Thursday of May, when people are asked ‘to turn to God inprayer and meditation’. The President is required by law to sign a proclamation each year,encouraging all Americans to pray on this day.
The airline’s participation in National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving goes beyond meresymbolism; it is an active expression of gratitude, humility, and service. Grounded in thevalues of excellence, safety, and patriotism, Goldstar Air recognizes the critical role offaith in shaping destinies. With Ghana’s diverse religious landscape, the airlineacknowledges the inclusivity of this observance, appealing to Christians, Muslims, andTraditionalists alike.
Ghana’s Republic Day is celebrated on July 1st to commemorate the day in 1960 whenGhana officially became a republic. This day marks the end of the Queen’s role as headof state and the establishment of a republican constitution. While the actual Republic Dayand National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving is July 1st, the public holiday is beingobserved on Friday, July 4th, 2025. This is due to a recent amendment to the PublicHolidays and Commemorative Days Act, which allows the President to shift publicholidays falling on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays to the preceding Friday orfollowing Monday.
Goldstar Air will use this opportunity to unify its workforce under a shared vision ofhope and prosperity. A prayer service will be held by management, making theobservance a moment of collective thanksgiving and spiritual rejuvenation. At the heartof the airline’s celebration lies a message of inspiration: in an industry that demandsprecision, accountability, and resilience, prayer serves as a stabilizing force.When examining the worth of some global market revenues, such as Aviation ($3.5Trillion), Tourism ($10.9 Trillion), Manufacturing ($16.182 Trillion), Chocolate ($150Billion), Gold Ornaments ($100 Billion), Fashion ($3 Trillion), Beauty and Makeup($700 Billion), Entertainment ($2.83 Trillion), Sports ($2.65 Trillion), Cargo ($2.2Trillion), Music Copyright ($45.5 Billion), Agriculture ($4.59 Trillion), Courier Services($485 Billion), Food Services ($2.52 Trillion), Agribusiness ($3.4 Trillion), AviationInsurance ($466.79 Billion), Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) ($104 Billion),and In-flight Catering ($22 Billion), it becomes evident that Ghana can seriously tap intothese $53.846 Trillion income streams, by targeting just 1.8571 percent to achieve theProject $1 Trillion foreign reserves goal. In addition to hard work and perseverance to tapinto these income streams, it also takes the God factor to achieve this goal, making theNational Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving significant.
The airline understands that the journey of building a world-class airline is not onlytechnical but also spiritual. By dedicating time to prayer and thanksgiving, the companyreinforces its mission to create a people-centered enterprise rooted in divine principles.This faith-driven philosophy fosters trust among customers and serves as a reminder thatthe airline is not only a vehicle for transport but also a beacon of national pride andpurpose.
Goldstar Air’s corporate social responsibility initiatives find renewed relevance duringthe National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving. As the airline reflects on its progress andchallenges, it renews its commitment to empowering communities, creating jobs, andsupporting national development
The National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving becomes a moment for reflection on theairline’s impact on health, education, and youth empowerment across the regions ofGhana. Staff volunteerism, charitable donations, and outreach activities underscore thespirit of thanksgiving, reinforcing the bond between the airline and the people of Ghana.This active role in national upliftment and Ghana’s national motto “Freedom and Justice”aligns the company with the moral aspirations of the citizens and the spiritual energy ofthe day.
“Freedom and Justice” is Ghana’s national motto, and a concept deeply rooted in thenation’s history and identity, particularly associated with the Black Star Gate andIndependence Square in Accra. It signifies the country’s independence from Britishcolonial rule in 1957, and its commitment to self-determination and the well-being of itscitizens.
According to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Goldstar Air, Eric Bannerman,the airline sees the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Day as an opportunity to align itsstrategic goals with divine providence. Executive management takes this occasion to seekwisdom and foresight for long-term planning, route expansion, safety protocols, andinfrastructure investments. Goldstar Air’s vision to connect Ghana to the world and toposition Accra as an aviation hub is placed in divine hands, recognizing the role of prayerin guiding leadership and organizational direction. By doing so, the airline incorporatesspiritual intelligence into its corporate governance, setting a standard for faith-basedcorporate responsibility in Africa.
Furthermore, the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving provides a platform forGoldstar Air to inspire and empower Ghanaian youth. The airline, known for its youthempowerment and mentorship programs, will use the day to organize motivationalsessions where leaders share stories of perseverance, purpose, and the power of prayer.
These gatherings will serve as an inspiration to aspiring aviators, engineers, marketers,and hospitality professionals. Goldstar Air believes that instilling a culture of gratitudeand faith in the next generation is vital for sustainable growth. Young people areencouraged to dream big, stay grounded in their values, and view national service as adivine calling.
Goldstar Air will also integrate artistic and cultural elements into its observance of theNational Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving. Through music, poetry, and dance, the airlinewill showcase the spiritual richness of Ghanaian heritage. Traditional drumming andgospel choruses will blend harmoniously at prayer events, creating a vibrant atmosphereof reverence and celebration. This cultural fusion strengthens national identity andhighlights the role of the arts in spiritual expression.
Interfaith collaboration will be another hallmark of Goldstar Air’s celebration. Religiousleaders from various faiths will be invited to lead prayers, share reflections, and bless thework of the airline. This inclusive approach echoes Ghana’s reputation as a peaceful andtolerant nation. It also reinforces Goldstar Air’s brand as a unifier, bringing togetherpeople of different backgrounds toward a common destiny. The interfaith element willserve as a reminder that, regardless of creed, all Ghanaians can unite in prayer for aprosperous future.
Goldstar Air’s celebration of the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving will also paytribute to its employees. The airline will continue to acknowledge the dedication,sacrifices, and professionalism of its workforce. Employee appreciation programs,awards, and messages of gratitude will be shared company-wide, emphasizing that peopleare the heart of the organization. Moments of silence will be observed for fallen heroes ofthe aviation sector, and prayers will be offered for the safety and well-being of allemployees and their families. This culture of care and recognition strengthens morale andfosters a deep sense of belonging within the company.
The airline’s observance of the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving will also extendto its international stakeholders. Messages of goodwill will be shared with global partners,foreign missions, and diaspora communities. These communications will serve as culturaldiplomacy, showcasing Ghana’s spiritual values and the airline’s commitment to globalpeace and cooperation. By sharing the significance of the day, Goldstar Air will promotea positive image of Ghanaians as a people rooted in faith, unity, and gratitude. Thispositioning will enhance the country’s soft power and attract investors, tourists, andcollaborators who align with its values.
Goldstar Air will also use the occasion to pray for peace and stability in Ghana and acrossAfrica. As the continent faces challenges such as conflict, inequality, and climate change,the airline recognizes the power of collective intercession. Prayer sessions will bededicated to the leadership of the country, the well-being of its people, and theadvancement of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The airline positions itself as a PanAfrican player committed to regional integration and continental prosperity with its AfrikAllianz initiative, a multi modal single Air Transport Alliance connecting Africa andbeyond. By invoking divine blessings on the continent, Goldstar Air affirms its role inAfrica’s renaissance.
The celebration will become a catalyst for strengthening partnerships between the privatesector and religious institutions. Goldstar Air will collaborate with churches, mosques,and traditional councils to organize community events that promote prayer, thanksgiving,and national cohesion. These partnerships will enhance the airline’s social license tooperate and deepen its grassroots connections. In return, faith communities will becomeambassadors of the brand, support its mission and promote its services to theircongregations.
Goldstar Air’s participation in the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving is also anopportunity for introspection and spiritual growth. Management reflects on ethicalleadership, service excellence, and the moral compass guiding business decisions.Workshops and retreats will be held to encourage personal development, mindfulness,and emotional intelligence among staff. The spiritual renewal experienced during the daywill become a source of strength, clarity, and resilience for the challenges ahead. In afast-paced industry, moments of stillness and reflection are invaluable for sustainedexcellence.
Mr. Bannerman emphasized that the management of the airline advocated last year for anannual National Thanksgiving Day in Ghana, as a dedicated day for collective gratitude,reflection, and appreciation of God with family and friends. Management also indicatedthat this initiative would serve as a unifying force fostering national cohesion amidst thecountry’s diverse cultural tapestry and stated that the day should be marked by variousactivities, including interfaith services, community gatherings, and public events, whichwould encourage participation across all sectors and boost tourism through travel.Goldstar Air is giving God all the praise for the implementation of July 1st every year inGhana as a National Prayer and Thanksgiving Day, similar to how it is observed in theUnited States and Canada.
Management further stated that implementing Thanksgiving Day in Ghana offers an opportunity to blend a global tradition with rich local customs, fostering a sense of community, gratitude, and celebration. Thanksgiving will become a cherished annual event that brings Ghanaians together in gratitude and joy, incorporating traditional elements, organizing community activities, and promoting the concept through media and education.
Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November in the United States,as specified in a joint resolution passed by the U.S. Congress in 1941 and a proclamationissued by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942. It was first celebrated in 1621. InCanada, Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the second Monday in October. It involvesgathering with loved ones, sharing meals, and giving thanks for blessings. Adapting thisfestive occasion in Ghana will bring a unique blend of cultural traditions and communalspirit.
Data from Airlines for America (A4A) shows that more than 31 million people wereexpected to fly in the United States during the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday period. TheA4A group highlights that this figure marks an all-time high for this time of year, upfrom 29 million passengers in 2023 and 28 million in the pre-pandemic year of 2019.
According to A4A’s Senior Vice President of Communications, Rebecca Spicer, thebusiest travel days during the entire period are Wednesday, November 27, and Sunday,December 1, 2024. Goldstar Air, the wings of Ghana and the belly of America hopes toachieve similar success in Ghana by boosting tourism and making it the third-highestforeign exchange earner.
The airline’s 24-hour service strategic steps will position Ghana as a premier aviation hubin Africa, attracting more passengers, trade, investment, and tourists, thereby drivingeconomic growth and development.
Extended service hours for the airline will be for other businesses to operate 24/7 andserve more customers, leading to increased sales and revenue. This will be especiallybeneficial for industries such as retail, hospitality, and healthcare, where consumerdemand is constant. In a globalized economy, a 24-hour work schedule enablesbusinesses to engage with international markets across different time zones, expandingtheir reach and customer base.
A 24-hour economy creates a variety of shift-based jobs, providing employmentopportunities for individuals who prefer or need non-traditional work hours. This caninclude students, part-time workers, and individuals with other daytime commitments andby offering flexible work hours, more people can enter the workforce, including thosewho may have been previously unemployed or underemployed due to scheduleconstraints.
Industries such as manufacturing and logistics benefit from continuous operations,reducing downtime, and increasing output. This leads to better utilization of machinery,facilities, and human resources.
Goldstar Air’s 24-hour operations will spread out the demand for infrastructure andutilities, such as transportation and energy, leading to more efficient use of publicresources and reducing peak load pressures.
The airline’s round-the-clock availability will let consumers have access to goods andservices at their convenience, enhancing their overall satisfaction and accommodating thediverse needs of consumers, including those who work non-traditional hours or havespecific timing preferences, thereby expanding the customer base.
Goldstar Air’s 24-hour service is committed to promoting trade and investment; therefore,the airline will focus on Ghana’s central global location and rich resources to make thecountry highly marketable and attractive for both international tourists and investors.Goldstar Air’s dynamic market adaptation with other Ghanaian companies’ operationsrunning around the clock, companies will quickly respond to market changes, consumerfeedback, and emerging trends, staying competitive and adaptable.
Cities in Ghana with vibrant night economies can attract tourists seeking entertainment,dining, and cultural experiences, leading to increased tourism revenue. This includesnight markets, late-night shows, and 24-hour attractions. Extended hospitality services,such as hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues will cater to international touristsarriving from different time zones, providing seamless and welcoming experiences.
The airline’s 24-hour services will create opportunities for small businesses to thrive byoffering niche services and products that cater to diverse consumer needs at all hours. Bygenerating jobs within communities, 24-hour operations will reduce unemployment andsupport local economic development.
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a significant role in Ghana’seconomy. In 2023, over 90 percent of business enterprises in the country were SMEs.Moreover, MSMEs account for approximately 80 percent of total employment andcontribute over 60 percent of Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), yet they are notadequately supported by the government, therefore they must get enough support to beable to operate 24-hour and tap into the international market.
Goldstar Air’s 24-hour initiative will encourage more businesses and services to adopt around-the-clock model. As a result, Ghana’s economic landscape will become moredynamic, resilient, and inclusive, catering to the diverse needs of a globalized society.The increased demand for workers to fill night and weekend shifts will create variousemployment opportunities. This flexibility will benefit students, part-time workers, andindividuals with non-traditional schedules.
The airline will also offer flexible working hours, enabling more people, includingcaregivers and individuals in remote areas, to join the workforce. This will help reduceunemployment rates while improving the use of machinery, facilities, and humanresources.
Goldstar Air’s 24-hour ground transportation service will enhance mobility by supportingthose working early or late shifts, contributing to broader economic activity. The airline’sapp-based ride services will play a vital role in ensuring the efficiency, accessibility, andconvenience of its air travel operations.
The adoption of a 24-hour work schedule has significantly impacted the economies ofmajor countries such as the United Kingdom, China, France, Australia, Canada, Mexico,and the United States. By operating around the clock, businesses and services can boostproductivity, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive economic growth.
The 24-hour operations will create jobs in most communities and reduce unemploymentrate by also creating the continuous job opportunities for the operation of emergencyservices such as police, fire departments, and medical facilities, ensuring public safetyand rapid response times, which are crucial for community well-being.
The National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving will always represent a renewed pledge byGoldstar Air to serve Ghana with integrity, safety, passion, and humility. As the wings ofGhana and the belly of America, the airline embraces its sacred responsibility to connectpeople, uplift communities, and represent the spirit of Ghana to the world. The prayers,gratitude, and reflections shared on this day serve as fuel for greater service, innovation,and nation-building. Goldstar Air’s celebration of Ghana’s National Day of Prayer andThanksgiving is not just a corporate activity, it is a sacred covenant with the people andthe land it so proudly represents.
Economic developers view aviation as crucial for countries and critical drivers of incomegeneration and growth. The viability of Wa and Ho Airports will be strengthened byGoldstar Air’s 24-hour economic activity and charter flights, making them majoreconomic drivers for the Upper West and Volta Regions of Ghana. Additionally, theintroduction of Hajj flights to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will create neweconomic opportunities for these regional capitals, further connecting rural communitiesto global commerce, supporting local businesses, and attracting new investments to theseareas.
Tamale will serve as a pivotal hub for Goldstar Air’s maintenance base, training school,catering services, and cargo village. Plans are also underway to operate internationalpassenger flights between Tamale and key destinations in the Sahel region, as well asHajj flights to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Goldstar Air will initially operate flights from Kumasi to destinations such as Rome,Madrid, Hamburg, London, Düsseldorf, Milan, and also offer Hajj flights to and from theKingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Flights from Accra will include destinations such as Washington, Dubai, Lagos, Toronto,Monrovia, Conakry, Abidjan, Guangzhou, Dakar, Banjul, Rhode Island, London, andFreetown. Future plans include adding cities such as Miami (Florida), Atlanta (Georgia),Chicago (Illinois), Glasgow (Scotland), Houston (Texas), and many others.
#Flygoldstar#WingsOfGhana#BellyOfAmerica#OverTwoMillionJobOpportunities
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