Sammy Gyamfi Apologises After Backlash Over Cash Donation to Nana Agradaa

Ghana Gold Board CEO Sammy Gyamfi apologizes after a viral video shows him giving a cash donation to Nana Agradaa, sparking public backlash. He calls it a private act of kindness, not politically motivated.

Sammy Gyamfi Apologises After Backlash Over Cash Donation to Nana Agradaa

The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has issued a public apology after facing widespread criticism for making a cash donation to former fetish priestess-turned-evangelist, Patricia Oduro Koranteng, popularly known as Nana Agradaa.

A video that surfaced on social media showed Mr. Gyamfi handing over what appeared to be dollar bills to Nana Agradaa during a public event. The footage quickly went viral, igniting backlash from the public and political circles, with many questioning the appropriateness of the gesture given the controversial figure’s background.

Responding to the uproar, Mr. Gyamfi took to Facebook on Sunday, May 11, describing the donation as a “private act of kindness”. He expressed regret over the gesture becoming public and apologised to those who felt let down.

I sincerely thought that I was doing this act of kindness in private, and never imagined that same could find its way into the public space,” he wrote. “To all such comrades, I am sincerely sorry for this unfortunate act of indiscretion. I respect and appreciate your views.

Mr. Gyamfi clarified that the donation was not politically motivated, but rather aligned with his personal values of helping others. He reaffirmed his commitment to public service and the responsibilities entrusted to him by President Nana Akufo-Addo.

“My view of public office as a privilege to serve society, solve problems, and help others has not changed,” he added. “I remain focused on the task entrusted to me by His Excellency, the President, for the development of our country.”

The GoldBod CEO also expressed appreciation for those who offered him counsel and support during the controversy and used the opportunity to wish all mothers a Happy Mother’s Day.

Mr. Gyamfi’s statement appears aimed at calming public concern and reaffirming his commitment to service amid growing scrutiny of public officials' conduct, especially in light of their associations and actions outside official duties.