Death Has Taken Away The Unsung Hero- Dr Francis Appiah

Death has taken away a dedicated African who in his own small way quietly tried to control corruption in the continent and make African leaders accountable for their actions and to their people.

For his work, he received the German African Award in 1997 as “the African who made the most contribution towards the development of the continent.” German Chancellor, Angela Merkel described him, while giving him the award as an individual seen as a pro – reform pioneer in Africa whose work has given many people throughout Africa a new hope and sense of courage”.

I met Francis at the University of Bergen in the 1990s. He was pursuing his doctorate in administrative science while I was pursuing a degree in Mass communication. My first encounter with Mr. Appiah was quite inspirational, for with a few simple words his dedication and commitment to the cause of Africa became apparent. His views regarding Africa was very positive, for he was a man who believed that despite all the turbulent times Africa had gone through change was still possible. It was therefore not a surprise that he left the shores of Norway to Ghana after completion of his doctorate degree.

While in Ghana, he lectured at the University of Ghana for four years until March of 2002 where he was engaged by United Nations Development Programme( UNDP ) to set up and head the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Secretariat at Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His contribution as head of Ghana’s representative to the NEPAD Steering Committee for two years was immeasurable.

At the time of his death recently, he was the Executive Secretary to the National African Peer Review Mechanism Governing Council. Under his leadership, Ghana became the first country to go through the African Peer Review Mechanism.

With his death, Ghana and Africa in general has lost a rare gem. Dr Appiah would have been 54 years on September 4 this year. May He Rest In Peace.

By G. Fiifi Owoo, Calgary, Canada.