Give us more biographies of national heroes, heroines - Bawumia

Ghana’s Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has urged Ghanaian authors to document the lives of the country's heroes and heroines to serve as a source of reference for the next generation.

Speaking as the special guest of honour at the launch of the biography of Ghana’s National Chief Imam Dr Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu titled: ‘A Gift to the Nation’ at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel in Accra, Dr Bawumia said: “There are many more heroes and heroines whose exemplary lives ought to be documented properly in a book. I want to encourage the author and many others with similar intentions to give us more biographies of our national heroes and heroines”.

The launch of the biography is part of the year-long activities to celebrate the centenary (100th) birthday of the Chief Imam.

In his address, Dr Bawumia described the biography as "a riveting account of the exemplary life and values of an astute teacher, an outstanding leader, an empathetic philanthropist, a tireless unifier, an ideal Iman and a peaceful man".

“‘A Gift to the Nation’ is a gift to you and me”, Dr Bawumia said, imploring the audience to “please buy the book, read and get some blessings”.

In all, a total of GHS152,000 was realised when the first few copies of the biography were auctioned.

Though absent, President Nana Akufo-Addo bought a copy for GHS20,000. Dr Bawumia also took a copy home for GHS10,000. Also, former President John Dramani Mahama, through the Chairman of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, who represented him at the launch, purchased a copy for GHS10,000 while retired boxer Azumah Nelson bought a copy for GHS5,000.

Additionally, one Alhaji Fasuq Gonda bought a copy of the book for GHS20,000.