Joseph Nii Ayikoi Otoo (L) is President of the GaDangme Council and Prez Akufo-Addo
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President Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s statement about the origin of Tetteh Quarshie, the man that introduced cocoa to Ghana, has been contested by the GaDangme Council who says the President’s assertion is not factual.

During the 67th Independence Parade held in the Eastern regional capital, Koforidua, Wednesday, March 06, 2024, President Akufo-Addo, in listing the industrious sons of the region towards the building of the nation said Tetteh Quarshie hailed from Mampong Akuapem in the Eastern region.

But according to the GaDangme Council, the late Tetteh Quarshie, according to historical records, hails from Osu in the Greater Accra region.

The Council, has, therefore, refuted the President’s claim in a statement it issued Wednesday, March 06, through its President, Joseph Nii Ayikoi Otoo, indicating that Akufo-Addo’s statement lacked historical accuracy.

“Tetteh Quarshie’s roots in Osu are well-documented, with many sources confirming his ties to the community except that some sometimes link in the Teshie. In both scenarios however he remains of a pure Ga extraction,” it said.

Sculpture of the late Tetteh Quarshie who introduced cocoa to Ghana

The Council further argued that the assertion that Mr. Quarshie hailed from Mampong lacks concrete evidence and contradicts the established historical narrative.

“It is crucial to correct this misinformation and set the record straight regarding the origins of Tetteh Quarshie. By spreading this inaccurate information, we risk distorting our understanding of history and undermining the legacy of individuals who have made significant contributions to our society. It is essential to rely on factual evidence and historical sources to ensure the accuracy of our narratives,” the statement added.

The council called for vigilance in verifying information and resisting the spread of inaccurate narratives.

Find below the full statement issued by the GaDangme Council:

To All Media Houses

DEBUNKING THE DISINFORMATION ABOUT THE ORIGINS OF TETTEH QUARSHIE;

In his 67th Independence Anniversary Speech at Koforidua in the Eastern Region, our President made an unfortunate statement claiming that Tetteh Quarshie, a prominent figure in the history of Ghana, hailed from Mampong in the Eastern Region rather than Osu. This assertion has sparked controversy and confusion among many citizens particularly GaDangmes.

Firstly it is essential to provide a brief background on Tetteh Quarshie and his significance in Ghanaian history. Tetteh Quarshie is widely recognized as the pioneer of cocoa farming in Ghana. He is credited with introducing cocoa beans to Ghana in the late 19th century, which led to the establishment of the cocoa industry in the country. Tetteh Quarshie’s contributions have had a lasting impact on the economy and development of Ghana.

Secondly, historical records and accounts clearly indicate that Tetteh Quarshie was born and raised in Osu, not Mampong. Osu is a prominent town in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It also produced Nii Kwabena Bonney also known as Boycotthene.Tetteh Quarshie’s roots in Osu are well-documented, with many sources confirming his ties to the community except that some sometimes link in the Teshie.In both scenarios however he remains of a pure Ga extraction.

Furthermore, the claim that Tetteh Quarshie hailed from Mampong lacks concrete evidence and is inconsistent with the established historical narrative.
While Mampong has its own historical significance, there is no credible information to support the assertion that Tetteh Quarshie was a native of that town.

It is crucial to correct this misinformation and set the record straight regarding the origins of Tetteh Quarshie. By spreading this inaccurate information, we risk distorting our understanding of history and undermining the legacy of individuals who have made significant contributions to our society. It is essential to rely on factual evidence and historical sources to ensure the accuracy of our narratives.

In conclusion, the claim that Tetteh Quarshie hailed from Mampong lacks historical veracity and validity. Tetteh Quarshie was born and raised in Osu, and his legacy as the pioneer of cocoa farming in Ghana remains undisputed.

As citizens, we must be vigilant in verifying information and resisting the spread of inaccurate narratives.

Let us honour the memory of Tetteh Quarshie by accurately acknowledging his contributions and celebrating his remarkable achievements.

We hope that the speech writers of the President will take steps to correct what is clearly a misinformation.
Sgd
Hon J.Ayikoi Otoo
President
GaDangme Council

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