Thousands of Ghanaians celebrated until early this morning to mark the 50th birthday of the first nation in sub-Saharan Africa to win independence.
Thousands gathered in the city centre for a re-enactment of the declaration of independence and fireworks at midnight to mark the precise anniversary.
A girl with her hair braided in the colours of the Ghanaian flag attends anniversary celebrations in Accra last night
Singer Stevie Wonder was due in Accra this week to sing a special version of his hit Happy Birthdaydedicated to Ghana, whose independence inspired a wave of liberation struggles around the continent and the world.
Nigerian leader Olusegun Obasanjo was billed as guest of honour at a ceremony today to be attended by Thabo Mbeki of South Africa and Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe, along with Britain's Duke of Kent and American politician Jesse Jackson.
After a chequered history since independence on March 6th, 1957, punctuated by a spate of military coups, Ghana has emerged as one of Africa's most respected democracies and more solid economies.
Poverty remains widespread, however.
The celebrations have not been without controversy. Former President Jerry Rawlings, who led two coups and ruled for nearly 20 of Ghana's 50 years of independence before stepping down in 2000, will not attend the celebrations.
Mr Rawlings, a vocal critic of President John Kufuor's administration, has criticised the government for refusing to acknowledge his contribution to Ghana's development.
Moreover, many Ghanaians have questioned the decision to spend $20 million on the year-long commemoration, including a hefty amount on cars for visiting presidents.