Akua Donkor’s journey from a humble cocoa farmer in Ghana’s Ashanti Region to a fierce political figure on the national stage is nothing short of extraordinary. Born in February 1952, she grew up experiencing the daily challenges of rural life, an upbringing that would deeply shape her mission. Despite lacking formal education, she pursued a life in public service with determination, becoming a powerful voice for Ghana’s underserved communities. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and relentless advocacy for those often left behind in the political process.
Her entry into public service began as an assemblywoman in Herman, where she gained recognition for championing the rights of farmers and women. Determined to broaden her influence, Donkor founded the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP) in 2012, setting her sights on the presidency. Her aim to become Ghana’s first female president sparked both admiration and skepticism. Her blunt, unapologetic style made her a compelling figure, admired by many who felt ignored by mainstream politicians, while others doubted her prospects due to her lack of formal education and the unconventional ideas she espoused. Nevertheless, Donkor captured public attention with her promise to shake up Ghana’s political status quo.
Her campaign centered on ambitious promises that resonated with everyday Ghanaians, including free education from primary to secondary school, eliminating import taxes to stimulate trade, and creating a free trade zone at Tema Port to attract foreign investment. She placed a particular focus on Ghana’s agricultural sector, promoting initiatives to support local farmers and opposing the use of harmful chemicals in farming practices. Her platform went beyond agriculture; she called for policies to aid young people entering farming by providing farmland and startup capital and advocated for the refining of Ghana’s natural resources, such as oil, gold, and cocoa, to benefit its citizens directly.
Akua Donkor also dedicated much of her political energy to advocating for women’s rights. She proposed extended maternity leave, the provision of soft loans to support women-owned businesses, and the release of imprisoned women who had defaulted on loans, with the chance to restart their lives through new loans and a three-year grace period. Her advocacy for social and economic justice set her apart from many of her contemporaries, highlighting her dedication to the people she represented.
Yet, her journey was far from easy. In both 2012 and 2016, Donkor faced disqualification from the presidential race due to the Electoral Commission’s requirements, which proved to be an enormous hurdle. She was undeterred, however, and continued to push forward despite these setbacks. A significant blow came in 2016 when the GFP’s headquarters in Kabu, Eastern Region, was destroyed by a fire, further impacting her campaign efforts. Nevertheless, Donkor’s resilience shone through as she remained committed to advocating for Ghana’s underserved communities, pressing on with her political aspirations even as challenges mounted.
In the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, Akua Donkor once again entered the race, reaffirming her ambition to lead Ghana. Her participation underscored her commitment to her vision for the country, even as she faced new challenges and competition. In the face of these adversities, Akua Donkor’s legacy is that of an unyielding advocate for social change. Her work extended beyond mere political ambition; she sought to challenge the existing structures and promote policies that would fundamentally alter the lives of everyday Ghanaians. Her platform, particularly its focus on the welfare of farmers and women, resonated with many across the nation who felt left behind by traditional politics.
Akua Donkor’s passing on October 28, 2024, marked the end of a remarkable political journey. However, her legacy endures as a reminder of the power of resilience, courage, and an unwavering dedication to justice. Her life and work will continue to inspire those who believe in the potential of grassroots movements to bring about meaningful change.
Akua Donkor’s story is one of strength, grit, and a deep love for her country. Her journey, though marked by setbacks, remains a testament to the impact one individual can have, transforming challenges into fuel for an enduring legacy.