The Kutu Acheampong Public Lectures: Unearthing the legacy of a forgotten leader

By Ekow QUARCOO

In the annals of Ghanaian history, few leaders remain as enigmatic as General Ignatius Kutu Acheampong. Loved by many, misunderstood by some, and woefully misjudged by most, Acheampong’s legacy has been relegated to the shadows, overshadowed by the tumultuous politics of the past.

But it is time to unearth the truth. On November 25, the Kutu Acheampong Foundation (KAF) presents the inaugural General Kutu Acheampong Public Lecture, a timely opportunity to re-evaluate the life and achievements of a man who helped in no mean measure to shape Ghana’s contemporary history.

As the countdown begins for the inaugural General Kutu Acheampong Public Lecture Series, it is fitting to reflect, even if briefly, on the life and legacy of a man who played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s contemporary history…and yet who happens to be the least heard about leader in Ghana.

The young Army Colonel who became Ghana’s Head of State from 1972 to 1978, has all too often been overlooked in Ghana’s historical narrative and despite his significant contributions to the nation’s development, his legacy has been relegated to the footnotes of history.

A Complex Legacy

The reality, largely acknowledged through the benefit of hindsight, is that Acheampong’s six-year tenure as Head of State (1972-1978) was marked by bold initiatives that transformed Ghana’s economy and infrastructure. His self-reliance policy, “Operation Feed Yourself,” aimed to boost agricultural production and reduce dependence on foreign aid. Landmark projects like the Kpong Dam, the Tema Motorway expansion, the SSNIT Residential Flats, the Dansoman estates and the development of the country’s telecommunications network all bear testament to his vision.

While General Acheampong’s rule was not without challenges and controversy, it is essential to acknowledge the complexities of his legacy. His government’s efforts to promote local industries and reduce reliance on foreign aid were well-intentioned, even if the execution may have been flawed.

Indeed, the fact that General Acheampong was largely forgotten in Ghana’s history is a testament to the country’s tumultuous past and the selective nature of historical memory. The time has come to unearth and re-evaluate the contributions of this complex figure, acknowledging both his achievements and limitations.

The Lecture Series

According to the Kutu Acheampong Foundation (KAF), organisers of the lectures, the Kutu Acheampong Lecture Series aims to spark a nuanced discussion about Ghana’s history and the role of its leaders. The lectures provide a platform for scholars, policy influencers, and the general public to engage with Ghana’s history and its implications for the future.

“By examining the past, we can gain a deeper understanding of the present and build a more informed future. As we commemorate this milestone, Ghanaians of all walks of life are invited to engage in a thoughtful reflection on their history and the leaders who shaped it,” Mr. Anthony Kutu Acheampong, Director of the Foundation told newsmen yesterday.

The inaugural edition of these lectures, takes place on Tuesday, November 25 at the Conference Hall of the Institute of Statistical, Social & Economic Research (ISSER), University of Ghana, Legon. This year’s lecture will run under the theme, “Legacy, Leadership & National Development: Rethinking Ghana’s Journey Through the Vision of General I. K. Acheampong”

The topic, “Abrewa and Ancestors Will Absolve Me”: A reflection on General I. K. Acheampong from Public Memory and Ghana’s Leadership Historiography”, will be delivered by no mean a personality than renowned traditional leader and scholar, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Paramount Chief, Essikado Traditional Area; President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs & Author of ‘African Culture in Governance and Development: The Ghana Paradigm’.

Lecture Details

– Theme: Legacy, Leadership & National Development: Rethinking Ghana’s Journey Through the Vision of General I. K. Acheampong

– Topic: “Abrewa and Ancestors Will Absolve Me”: A reflection on General I. K. Acheampong from Public Memory and Ghana’s Leadership Historiography”

– Speaker: Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Paramount Chief, Essikado Traditional Area; President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs

– Date: November 25, 2025

– Time: 5:00 pm

– Venue: ISSER Conference Hall, University of Ghana, Legon

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