Deputy Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Ellembelle Constituency in the Western Region ,Hon Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah has said that, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, first President of Ghana is remembered because of his unprecedented legacies.
Adding that ,he(Dr Kwame Nkrumah) built alot of industries without slogans because he put the interest of the Nation first in all his endeavors without putting his party first as characterized by the NPP government.
According to him,Dr Kwame Nkrumah is remembered because of his infrastructure achievement.
He said this last Saturday at Nkroful at a durbar to commemorate the 114th birthday of Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah.
Mr Armah Kofi Buah revealed that, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah built industries to benefit the entire Country which he cited the under listed achievements as the reasons Dr Kwame Nkrumah needs to be celebrated at all cost
Industrial Advancements:
He said,a wave of industrialization initiatives that laid the foundation for Ghana’s economic strength marked Nkrumah’s presidency.
The deputy minority leader noted, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s focus on creating self-reliance and reducing dependency on imports resulted in the establishment of several key enterprises like the Abosso Glass Factory.
He deduced that, Nkrumah’s push for local manufacturing led to the creation of the Abosso Glass Factory, a symbol of self-sufficiency in producing glass products.
Akosombo Dam and Akosombo Textiles Limited: Nkrumah’s dedication to harnessing Ghana’s resources led to the construction of the Akosombo Dam, which not only provided electricity but also spurred the growth of industries like Akosombo Textiles Limited, contributing to local employment.
Asutuare Sugar Factory and Buokrom Estate,he said was Nkrumah’s agricultural focus which birthed the Asutuare Sugar Factory and the Buokrom Estate, boosting sugar production and providing housing for workers.
Bolgatanga Meat Processing Factory:
Nkrumah’s commitment to value addition in agriculture led to the establishment of the Bolgatanga Meat Processing Factory, promoting local meat processing.
Bolgatanga Rice Mill Factory: Nkrumah’s pursuit of food security materialized in the creation of the Bolgatanga Rice Mill Factory, boosting domestic rice production.
Kade Match Factory: Under his visionary leadership, the Kade Match Factory emerged, contributing to local production and reducing import dependency.
On Education,Hon Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah made it clear that,Nkrumah recognized that education was pivotal for a nation’s progress.
He established institutions that continue to shape the country’s intellectual landscape:
Accra Polytechnic (Now Accra Technical University): This institution’s evolution into Accra Technical University remains a testament to Nkrumah’s commitment to technical education.
Ajumako School of Languages (Now Under UEW): By creating Ajumako School of Languages, Nkrumah paved the way for language studies, contributing to cultural preservation.
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST): This renowned institution stands as a monument to Nkrumah’s emphasis on science and technology education.
University of Cape Coast (UCC): The establishment of UCC expanded educational opportunities along the coast, promoting higher learning.
Enchi Training College: Nkrumah’s emphasis on education extended to teacher training, exemplified by the establishment of Enchi Training College.
Fosu Training College: The creation of Fosu Training College bolstered teacher education and improved the quality of education.
University of Ghana (University College of Gold Coast): The expansion of this institution into the University of Ghana underscores Nkrumah’s dedication to higher learning.
Ghana Medical School: His commitment to healthcare and medical education found expression in the establishment of Ghana Medical School.
Techiman Secondary School: Nkrumah’s focus on expanding educational access is evident through institutions like Techiman Secondary School.
Infrastructure and Urban Development: Shaping Modern Ghana
Nkrumah’s presidency saw the transformation of Ghana’s urban landscape, with projects that continue to define its modernity:
Kumasi Central Hospital (Now Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital): Nkrumah’s investment in healthcare is evident in the expansion of this hospital, ensuring quality medical care for Ghanaians.
Korle Bu Teaching Hospital: The expansion of Korle Bu, with specialized blocks, demonstrated Nkrumah’s commitment to healthcare excellence.
Tema Township and Tema Motorway: Nkrumah’s vision for a modern industrial city materialized in the establishment of Tema Township and the Tema Motorway, linking Accra and Tema for efficient transport.
Kumasi Jute Factory and Kumasi Shoe Factory: These initiatives contributed to industrial growth, providing quality jute products and footwear to Ghanaians.
City Hotel Catering Rest Houses (Now Golden Tulip – Kumasi): The transformation of this facility into Golden Tulip Hotel demonstrates Nkrumah’s commitment to hospitality infrastructure.
Patasi Estate: Nkrumah’s vision for planned housing resulted in the creation of Patasi Estate, catering to urban housing needs.
Meridian Hotel: The establishment of Meridian Hotel highlighted Nkrumah’s efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure.
Financial and Economic Fortitude: Building Institutions
Nkrumah’s legacy in the financial sector is palpable through the establishment of key institutions:
Bank of Ghana (BoG): The BoG’s foundation during Nkrumah’s time remains the backbone of Ghana’s financial system.
Ghana Commercial Bank (GCB): Nkrumah’s efforts resulted in the establishment of GCB, facilitating financial access and stability.
National Investment Bank (NIB): The NIB’s creation reflects Nkrumah’s foresight in fostering investment and economic growth.
Ghana Black Star Line: Nkrumah’s endeavors in the maritime sector included the establishment of the Ghana Black Star Line, fostering shipping and trade.
Ghana News Agency: The creation of this agency strengthened media and communication networks, supporting national development.
GIHOC Pharmaceuticals: Nkrumah’s focus on pharmaceuticals led to the establishment of GIHOC Pharmaceuticals, contributing to healthcare access.
Cultural and Creative Progress: Nurturing Identity.
Nkrumah recognized the significance of culture and creativity in national identity and growth:
Ghana Film Industries – Accra and Ghana Film Corporation: These institutions nurtured Ghana’s film industry, fostering cultural expression and creative entrepreneurship.
Institute of African Studies: Nkrumah’s commitment to preserving and studying African heritage is evident in this institute’s founding.
State Farm Institutes: Nkrumah’s agricultural innovation extended to State Farm Institutes, promoting modern farming techniques.
A Legacy of Progress
Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah’s visionary leadership left an indelible mark on Ghana’s history. His six years in office were characterized by bold initiatives that propelled Ghana’s development across industries, education, infrastructure, and more. Today, as we enjoy the fruits of his labor, Nkrumah’s name remains synonymous with progress, and his legacy continues to inspire us to strive for greatness.
In the end, Nkrumah’s achievements, ranging from the establishment of educational institutions to the creation of vital industries, stand as a testament to his dedication to Ghana’s growth and development. The name “Osagyefo” resonates with Ghanaians as a symbol of transformative leadership, and the impact of his presidency continues to shape the nation’s path to prosperity.
Source: Ayisah Foster
