Paa Kwesi Asare: From storyteller to central banker – The remarkable rise of Ghana’s Komla Dumor Laureate

From the vibrant hum of radio studios to the hallowed halls of Ghana’s central banking institution, Paa Kwesi Asare’s journey is one woven with grit, intellect, and a passion for impact.

In 2023, the world stood still to applaud him as he was named the winner of the prestigious BBC News Komla Dumor Award—an honor that not only recognized his journalistic excellence but also echoed the legacy of one of Africa’s most revered storytellers.

His name lit up international headlines when he became the first Ghanaian to win the prestigious Komla Dumor Award, nearly a decade after its inception. That historic moment took him to the BBC in London, where he spent three transformative months sharpening his craft and contributing to global journalism—a well-deserved honour that celebrated his depth, integrity, and voice.

But Paa Kwesi’s story didn’t begin there. For close to a decade, he was a pillar at TV3 Ghana, where he rose through the ranks to become the Head of Business News. As host of Business Focus, a weekly program dissecting Ghana’s economic landscape, and anchor of the network’s flagship evening bulletin, he brought clarity to complex issues and inspired trust across boardrooms and households alike.

His voice—firm yet thoughtful—has interviewed some of Ghana’s most iconic business minds, consistently pushing the envelope of economic journalism. Before TV3, he honed his skills across Ghana’s top radio stations—Joy FM, Citi FM, and Starr FM—where his versatility and depth earned him widespread respect.

Behind the scenes, Paa Kwesi was equally relentless in his pursuit of knowledge. He holds two master’s degrees: one in Public Administration from Auburn University in the United States, and another in Digital Marketing from Birmingham City University in the UK. His unique academic blend of governance and digital strategy positioned him perfectly for the future.

That future has now arrived. Paa Kwesi Asare has joined the Bank of Ghana, marking an inspiring transition from media to monetary policy, from shaping narratives to influencing national financial direction.

And now, he embraces that next chapter: joining the Bank of Ghana’s Communications Department. In this pivotal role, Paa Kwesi brings his storytelling brilliance and media expertise to the heart of Ghana’s financial and policy communications—helping shape how the central bank connects with the public and builds trust in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.

His move is not just a personal achievement—it is a profound symbol of what is possible when talent meets tenacity.

In 2024, EMY Africa honored him for his outstanding contribution to society—a fitting recognition for a man who has consistently used his platform for the public good.

Paa Kwesi Asare’s journey from broadcaster to central banker is not just a change of roles; it is a compelling message to dreamers everywhere: no path is too distant, no reinvention too bold. It’s the story of a man who didn’t just report change—he became it.

Written By Koku Agbenaza

The post Paa Kwesi Asare: From storyteller to central banker – The remarkable rise of Ghana’s Komla Dumor Laureate first appeared on 3News.

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