Copyright modernghana
Dear Governor, As the Bank of Ghana commemorates its anniversary, I write as a concerned citizen and advocate for historical justice to respectfully urge your leadership in honouring one of Ghana’s most courageous and impactful freedom fighters—Rebecca Naa Dedei Aryeetey, affectionately known as Dedei Ashikishan. Born in Osu in the early 1920s, Naa Dedei Aryeetey rose from humble beginnings to become a flour magnate, a political financier, and a strategic force behind Kwame Nkrumah’s Convention People's Party (CPP). Her financial support and grassroots mobilization were instrumental in propelling Nkrumah to power, making her one of the most influential women in Ghana’s liberation movement. Her tragic death in 1961, allegedly by poisoning at a CPP function in Ho, remains a chilling reminder of the risks borne by those who dared to dream of freedom. Yet her legacy has been largely relegated to the margins of national memory. It is important to note that Peduase Lodge, Ghana’s presidential retreat, was made possible through the strategic leadership and sacrificial support of Naa Dedei Aryeetey. This landmark, like her legacy, stands as a testament to the civic courage and infrastructural vision of Ghanaian women. Currently, her image graces the 50 pesewas coin—a gesture of recognition, yes, but one that falls short of her monumental impact. Compare this to the 2 cedi note bearing J.B. Danquah’s image. While Danquah’s intellectual contributions are notable, Dedei’s financial and grassroots activism were equally vital—and arguably more sacrificial. We therefore respectfully petition the Bank of Ghana and its leadership to: Elevate her image to a higher denomination note to reflect her national stature. Commission a commemorative note or series featuring her image and story. Collaborate with the Ministry of Education to integrate her story into civic education curricula nationwide. Support the establishment of a Women’s University for Science and Civic Leadership named in her honour. Fund civic education campaigns and scholarship initiatives that highlight the role of women in Ghana’s independence. Designate a national day of remembrance for women freedom fighters. Governor, your stewardship of Ghana’s financial heritage places you in a unique position to lead this honour. Let this anniversary be remembered not only for fiscal milestones, but for a courageous step toward restoring balance, dignity, and truth in our collective memory. Rebecca Naa Dedei Aryeetey gave her life for Ghana’s freedom. Let us give her the honour she deserves. Yours faithfully, Atitso C. Akpalu Retired Senior Citizen Teshie-Nungua akpaluck@gmail.com +233244140626
