In a notable recognition of his contributions to Africa’s development, Prof. K. Y. Amoako, a distinguished African economist and founder of the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) has recently received two prestigious awards. The first is an honorary Doctor of Science (Social Science) from SOAS University of London for his “lifetime services, contribution and impact on Africa,” and the second is The Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George, awarded by His Majesty King Charles for his services to UK Economic and Development Policy in Africa.
The economist, who has previously received two honorary doctorates from prominent African universities, expressed his gratitude for the honors. He highlighted the collaborative efforts with colleagues and friends over his fifty-year career, mentioning partnerships with notable figures such as Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, Clare Short, and Nick Stern. His work with the Commission for Africa, established by Tony Blair in 2004, was particularly recognized for advancing aid effectiveness as a central pillar of Africa’s development agenda.
In a letter shared after receiving the SOAS Award on September 5 in London, Prof. K. Y. Amoako acknowledged the support of colleagues from the World Bank, where he began his career in 1974, and the UN Economic Commission for Africa, where he served for Ten years starting in 1996. He also extended appreciation to his compatriots in Ghana, especially for their backing after his return to establish ACET and their continued collaboration on the Ghana Compact.
Turning to current initiatives, Prof. Amoako revealed plans for upcoming engagements with Ghana’s major political parties, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). These discussions will focus on how their manifestos align with the key governance and political economy issues identified during the Citizens’ Convention held in June. There will also be a roundtable discussion with smaller parties and independent presidential candidates, addressing their plans for addressing the nation’s pressing concerns.
The British High Commissioner to Ghana is expected to present the medal for the Order of St Michael and St George to Prof. Amoako in a ceremony scheduled for Accra within the next few months.
Read The Citation of the Award below:
By Jeorge Wilson Kingson || ghananewsonline.com.gh