After the release of Ghanaian actress, Yvonne Nelson’s riveting memoir, ‘I Am Not Yvonne Nelson, the book has already found success on Apple Books and Amazon, revealing that a vibrant literary landscape of Ghana exists.
The remarkable feat has triggered readers to also search for other public figures who have also authored their memoirs and books, offering readers an intimate glimpse into their lives.
From celebrated actors and filmmakers to football icons and politicians, these published memoirs shed light on the diverse journeys and struggles that have shaped their remarkable careers.
In this article, we explore the memoirs of 10 Ghanaian public figures, including Yvonne Nelson, Asamoah Gyan, Bola Ray, Kafui Danku, Kofi Amoabeng, Gifty Anti, Abedi Pele, John Mahama, Kwasi Appiah, and Kwamena Ahwoi.
I Am Not Yvonne Nelson
Yvonne Nelson’s memoir, “I Am Not Yvonne Nelson,” is an emotional and revealing account of a young woman’s search for her true identity.
Nelson opens up about the trials and tribulations she has faced in the entertainment industry, shedding light on the challenges that often go unseen behind the glamour.
Published on May 17, 2023, and launched on June 18, 2023, this book has shocked Ghanaians and mentioned certain people in her personal and professional life including Sarkodie who impregnated her and asked her to abort.
LeGyanDary
Celebrated Ghanaian footballer and former captain of the Black Stars, Asamoah Gyan shares his captivating story in “LeGyanDary.”
Gyan opens up about the highs and lows of his career, including the infamous missed penalty at the 2010 World Cup.
This memoir, published on May 4, 2022, offers a glimpse into the dressing room conversations, personal struggles, and the lessons learned throughout his football journey.
It is Possible
Prominent media personality and entrepreneur, Nathaniel Kwabena Adisi popularly known as Bola Ray released his biography titled “It is Possible.” on September 18, 2017, which was authored by Obed Boafo.
This book chronicles Bola Ray’s rise to success and the crucial individuals who played a role in shaping his journey.
Through his story, Bola Ray inspires readers and demonstrates the power of determination and resilience in achieving one’s dreams.
Silence Is Not Golden
SILENCE IS NOT GOLDEN tackles the detrimental effects of suppressing emotions and the importance of speaking up.
Actress and filmmaker, Kafui Danku encourages readers not to be silent as it is not always beneficial, and bottling up emotions can lead to various psychological and physiological issues such as depression, high blood pressure, poor memory, weakened immune system, and insomnia.
Drawing from her own painful experiences, Danku shares valuable lessons, inspiration, and encouragement, particularly for women who can relate to her story. She takes readers on a journey down memory lane, offering insights that are worth exploring.
My First Coup d’Etat: And Other True Stories from the Lost Decades of Africa
Former President, John Dramani Mahama recounts his experiences growing up in Ghana during the challenging post-independence era in his memoir, My First Coup d’Etat”.
The non-fiction book provides insights into the political climate of the time, including the coup d’état that affected Mahama’s family.
It offers a multidimensional perspective, combining history, culture, and personal reflection elements.
The Washington Post praised it as a “graceful memoir and a remarkable literary debut that captures the evolution of Mahama’s consciousness and provides glimpses into a nation’s recovered soul.”
Leaders Don’t Have to Yell: National Team Coach on Leading High-Performing Teams
James Kwasi Appiah, the former coach of Ghana’s national football team also co-authored a memoir with in 2019.
The book explores Appiah’s career as both a player and a coach, delving into his journey to becoming an international coach and his experiences with the Ghanaian football team.
It covers significant events such as qualifying for the World Cup and the African Cup of Nations, as well as Appiah’s thoughts on the past, present, and future of Ghanaian football.
The book also includes Appiah’s accounts of key moments in his career and his perspective on building a legacy for Ghanaian football.
Working with Rawlings
Former Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Kwamena Ahwoi focuses on his working relationship with former President Jerry John Rawlings in his book.
The book sheds light on their collaboration, the ups and downs they faced, and their joint commitment to improving Ghana. However, it also explores how their relationship drifted apart over time.
The book aims to provide lessons for current and future leaders of Ghana by emphasizing the positives and leaving out the negatives.
Former President Rawlings before his demise expressed dissatisfaction with the book, describing it as “generously economical with the truth” and accusing Ahwoi of having a “callous agenda.”
The UT Story: Humble Beginnings By Kofi Amoabeng
Kofi Amoabeng, the founder of UT Bank, shares his remarkable entrepreneurial journey in two memoirs. “The UT Story: Humble Beginnings” and its sequel highlight the transformation of Unique Trust Financial Services Limited into a successful finance house.
The memoir chronicles how Capt. Amoabeng, despite facing challenges in obtaining a loan from banks, established a successful finance house that brought about a significant shift in the lending culture of Ghana.’
The second instalment of Capt. Amoabeng’s memoirs further explore the consolidation of UT’s gains and the establishment of a unique corporate culture.
These memoirs, co-written with George Bentum Essiaw, offer profound insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, and the power of perseverance.
Celebrated journalist and TV host, Gifty Anti offers a “detox manual” for women in her book “When Strong Women Cry.”
Through personal anecdotes and experiences, Anti encourages women to embrace their vulnerabilities and express their emotions.
The book serves as a guide for women, particularly those often labelled as strong, to also find healing. Published as one of her five books, this memoir is a source of inspiration and empowerment.
Abedi Pele Ballon D’Or
Abedi Pele, the legendary Ghanaian footballer, takes readers on a journey through his illustrious career in his biography. This book, published in 1992 and available in English and French versions, provides a comprehensive account of Pele’s achievements. His autobiography also makes him the first Ghanaian footballer to have written a book.
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