Goldstar Air Celebrates Ghana’s National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving

 

Ghanaian and United States registered company Goldstar Air, a private international airline with an issued Air Carrier Licence (ACL/N-SCH No. 0239) from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to operate passenger and cargo flights across West Africa and intercontinental routes, is joining Ghanaians in celebrating the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, traditionally known as Republic Day. This day represents a pivotal 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 fabric of society, the day stands as a collective call for divine guidance and blessings for the nation.

Goldstar Air’s celebration of this sacred day reflects its deep alignment with Ghanaian values and its commitment to promoting a strong national identity. An identity that transcends the aviation industry and supports the airline’s ambitious Project $1 Trillion foreign reserves initiative. As the “wings of Ghana and belly of America” and a symbol of national progress, Goldstar Air acknowledges the importance of divine intervention in the development of the country, the aviation sector, and the people it serves. The National Day of Prayer is also an annual day of observance designated by the United States Congress and held on the first Thursday of May, when people are asked ‘to turn to God in prayer 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 mere symbolism; it is an active expression of gratitude, humility, and service. Grounded in the values of excellence, safety, and patriotism, Goldstar Air recognizes the critical role of faith in shaping destinies. With Ghana’s diverse religious landscape, the airline acknowledges the inclusivity of this observance, appealing to Christians, Muslims, and Traditionalists alike.

Ghana’s Republic Day is celebrated on July 1st to commemorate the day in 1960 when Ghana officially became a republic. This day marks the end of the Queen’s role as head of state and the establishment of a republican constitution. While the actual Republic Day and National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving is July 1st, the public holiday is being observed on Friday, July 4th, 2025. This is due to a recent amendment to the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act, which allows the President to shift public holidays falling on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays to the preceding Friday or following Monday.

Goldstar Air will use this opportunity to unify its workforce under a shared vision of hope and prosperity. A prayer service will be held by management, making the observance a moment of collective thanksgiving and spiritual rejuvenation. At the heart of the airline’s celebration lies a message of inspiration: in an industry that demands precision, accountability, and resilience, prayer serves as a stabilizing force.

The worth of some global market revenues, such as Aviation ($3.5 Trillion), Tourism ($10.9 Trillion), Manufacturing ($16.182 Trillion), Chocolate ($150 Billion), Gold Ornaments ($100 Billion), Fashion ($3 Trillion), Beauty and Makeup ($700 Billion), Entertainment ($2.83 Trillion), Sports ($2.65 Trillion), Cargo ($2.2 Trillion), Music Copyright ($45.5 Billion), Agriculture ($4.59 Trillion), Courier Services ($485 Billion), Food Services ($2.52 Trillion), Agribusiness ($3.4 Trillion), Aviation Insurance ($466.79 Billion), Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) ($104 Billion), and In-flight Catering ($22 Billion), it becomes evident that Ghana can seriously tap into these income streams adding up to $53.846 Trillion. By targeting just 1.8571 percent, the airline’s. Project $1 Trillion foreign reserves can be achieved. In addition to hard work and perseverance to tap into these income streams, it also takes the God factor to achieve this goal, making the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving significant.

The airline understands that the journey of building a world-class airline is not only technical but also spiritual. By dedicating time to prayer and thanksgiving, the company reinforces 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 that the airline is not only a vehicle for transport but also a beacon of national pride and purpose.

Goldstar Air’s corporate social responsibility initiatives find renewed relevance during the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving. As the airline reflects on its progress and challenges, it renews its commitment to empowering communities, creating jobs, and supporting national development.

The National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving becomes a moment for reflection on the airline’s impact on health, education, and youth empowerment across the regions of Ghana. Staff volunteerism, charitable donations, and outreach activities underscore the spirit 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 of the day.

“Freedom and Justice” is Ghana’s national motto, and a concept deeply rooted in the nation’s history and identity, particularly associated with the Black Star Gate and Independence Square in Accra. It signifies the country’s independence from British colonial rule in 1957, and its commitment to self-determination and the well-being of its citizens.

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 its strategic goals with divine providence. Executive management takes this occasion to seek wisdom and foresight for long-term planning, route expansion, safety protocols, and infrastructure investments. Goldstar Air’s vision to connect Ghana to the world and to position Accra as an aviation hub is placed in divine hands, recognizing the role of prayer in guiding leadership and organizational direction. By doing so, the airline incorporates spiritual intelligence into its corporate governance, setting a standard for faith-based corporate responsibility in Africa.

Furthermore, the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving provides a platform for Goldstar Air to inspire and empower Ghanaian youth. The airline, known for its youth empowerment and mentorship programs, will use the day to organize motivational sessions 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 gratitude and faith in the next generation is vital for sustainable growth. Young people are encouraged to dream big, stay grounded in their values, and view national service as a divine calling.

Goldstar Air will also integrate artistic and cultural elements into its observance of the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving. Through music, poetry, and dance, the airline will showcase the spiritual richness of Ghanaian heritage. Traditional drumming and gospel choruses will blend harmoniously at prayer events, creating a vibrant atmosphere of reverence and celebration. This cultural fusion strengthens national identity and highlights the role of the arts in spiritual expression.

Interfaith collaboration will be another hallmark of Goldstar Air’s celebration. Religious leaders from various faiths will be invited to lead prayers, share reflections, and bless the work of the airline. This inclusive approach echoes Ghana’s reputation as a peaceful and tolerant nation. It also reinforces Goldstar Air’s brand as a unifier, bringing together people of different backgrounds toward a common destiny. The interfaith element will serve as a reminder that, regardless of creed, all Ghanaians can unite in prayer for a prosperous future.

Goldstar Air’s celebration of the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving will also pay tribute 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 people are the heart of the organization. Moments of silence will be observed for fallen heroes of the aviation sector, and prayers will be offered for the safety and well-being of all employees and their families. This culture of care and recognition strengthens morale and fosters a deep sense of belonging within the company.

The airline’s observance of the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving will also extend to its international stakeholders. Messages of goodwill will be shared with global partners, foreign missions, and diaspora communities. These communications will serve as cultural diplomacy, showcasing Ghana’s spiritual values and the airline’s commitment to global peace and cooperation. By sharing the significance of the day, Goldstar Air will promote a positive image of Ghanaians as a people rooted in faith, unity, and gratitude. This positioning will enhance the country’s soft power and attract investors, tourists, and collaborators who align with its values.

Goldstar Air will also use the occasion to pray for peace and stability in Ghana and across Africa. As the continent faces challenges such as conflict, inequality, and climate change, the airline recognizes the power of collective intercession. Prayer sessions will be dedicated to the leadership of the country, the well-being of its people, and the advancement of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The airline positions itself as a Pan-African player committed to regional integration and continental prosperity with its Afrik Allianz initiative, a multi modal single Air Transport Alliance connecting Africa and beyond. By invoking divine blessings on the continent, Goldstar Air affirms its role in Africa’s renaissance.

The celebration will become a catalyst for strengthening partnerships between the private sector 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 to operate and deepen its grassroots connections. In return, faith communities will become ambassadors of the brand, support its mission and promote its services to their congregations.

Goldstar Air’s participation in the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving is also an opportunity for introspection and spiritual growth. Management reflects on ethical leadership, 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 day will become a source of strength, clarity, and resilience for the challenges ahead. In a fast-paced industry, moments of stillness and reflection are invaluable for sustained excellence.

Mr. Bannerman emphasized that the management of the airline advocated last year for an annual National Thanksgiving Day in Ghana, as a dedicated day for collective gratitude, reflection, and appreciation of God with family and friends. Management also indicated that this initiative would serve as a unifying force fostering national cohesion amidst the country’s diverse cultural tapestry and stated that the day should be marked by various activities, including interfaith services, community gatherings, and public events, which would 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 in Ghana as a National Prayer and Thanksgiving Day, similar to how it is observed in the United 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 proclamation issued by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942. It was first celebrated in 1621. In Canada, Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the second Monday in October. It involves gathering with loved ones, sharing meals, and giving thanks for blessings. Adapting this festive occasion in Ghana will bring a unique blend of cultural traditions and communal spirit.

Data from Airlines for America (A4A) shows that more than 31 million people were expected to fly in the United States during the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday period. The A4A group highlights that this figure marks an all-time high for this time of year, up from 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, the busiest 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 to achieve similar success in Ghana by boosting tourism and making it the third-highest foreign exchange earner.

The airline’s 24-hour service strategic steps will position Ghana as a premier aviation hub in Africa, attracting more passengers, trade, investment, and tourists, thereby driving economic growth and development.

Extended service hours for the airline will be for other businesses to operate 24/7 and serve more customers, leading to increased sales and revenue. This will be especially beneficial for industries such as retail, hospitality, and healthcare, where consumer demand is constant. In a globalized economy, a 24-hour work schedule enables businesses to engage with international markets across different time zones, expanding their reach and customer base.

24-hour economy creates variety of shift-based jobs, providing employment opportunities for individuals who prefer or need non-traditional work hours. This can include students, part-time workers, and individuals with other daytime commitments and by offering flexible work hours, more people can enter the workforce, including those who may have been previously unemployed or underemployed due to schedule constraints.

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 and utilities, such as transportation and energy, leading to more efficient use of public resources and reducing peak load pressures.

The airline’s round-the-clock availability will let consumers have access to goods and services at their convenience, enhancing their overall satisfaction and accommodating the diverse needs of consumers, including those who work non-traditional hours or have specific 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 the country highly marketable and attractive for both international tourists and investors.

Goldstar Air’s dynamic market adaptation with other Ghanaian companies’ operations running around the clock, companies will quickly respond to market changes, consumer feedback, 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 includes night markets, late-night shows, and 24-hour attractions. Extended hospitality services, such as hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues will cater to international tourists arriving from different time zones, providing seamless and welcoming experiences.

The airline’s 24-hour services will create opportunities for small businesses to thrive by offering niche services and products that cater to diverse consumer needs at all hours. By generating jobs within communities, 24-hour operations will reduce unemployment and support local economic development.

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a significant role in Ghana’s economy. In 2023, over 90 percent of business enterprises in the country were SMEs. Moreover, MSMEs account for approximately 80 percent of total employment and contribute over 60 percent of Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), yet they are not adequately supported by the government, therefore they must get enough support to be able to operate 24-hour and tap into the international market.

Goldstar Air’s 24-hour initiative will encourage more businesses and services to adopt a round-the-clock model. As a result, Ghana’s economic landscape will become more dynamic, 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 various employment opportunities. This flexibility will benefit students, part-time workers, and individuals with non-traditional schedules.

The airline will also offer flexible working hours, enabling more people, including caregivers and individuals in remote areas, to join the workforce. This will help reduce unemployment rates while improving the use of machinery, facilities, and human resources.

Goldstar Air’s 24-hour ground transportation service will enhance mobility by supporting those working early or late shifts, contributing to broader economic activity. The airline’s app-based ride services will play a vital role in ensuring the efficiency, accessibility, and convenience of its air travel operations.

The adoption of a 24-hour work schedule has significantly impacted the economies of major countries such as the United Kingdom, China, France, Australia, Canada, Mexico, and the United States. By operating around the clock, businesses and services can boost productivity, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive economic growth.

The 24-hour operations will create jobs in most communities and reduce unemployment rate by also creating the continuous job opportunities for the operation of emergency services such as police, fire departments, and medical facilities, ensuring public safety and rapid response times, which are crucial for community well-being.

The National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving will always represent a renewed pledge by Goldstar Air to serve Ghana with integrity, safety, passion, and humility. As the wings of Ghana and the belly of America, the airline embraces its sacred responsibility to connect people, 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 and Thanksgiving is not just a corporate activity, it is a sacred covenant with the people and the land it so proudly represents.

Economic developers view aviation as crucial for countries and critical drivers of income generation and growth. The viability of Wa and Ho Airports will be strengthened by Goldstar Air’s 24-hour economic activity and charter flights, making them major economic drivers for the Upper West and Volta Regions of Ghana. Additionally, the introduction of Hajj flights to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will create new economic opportunities for these regional capitals, further connecting rural communities to global commerce, supporting local businesses, and attracting new investments to these areas.

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 international passenger flights between Tamale and key destinations in the Sahel region, as well as Hajj 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 the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Flights from Accra will include destinations such as Washington, Dubai, Lagos, Toronto, Monrovia, Conakry, Abidjan, Guangzhou, Dakar, Banjul, Rhode Island, London, and Freetown. Future plans include adding cities such as Miami (Florida), Atlanta (Georgia), Chicago (Illinois), Glasgow (Scotland), Houston (Texas), and many others.

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