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Tag: Sir Sam Jonah

  • I am afraid coverage of 2024 elections won’t be professional – Sir Sam Jonah

    I am afraid coverage of 2024 elections won’t be professional – Sir Sam Jonah

    The Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Sir Sam Jonah, has expressed concern over the potential lack of professional coverage of the upcoming 2024 elections in Ghana.

    Speaking at the launch of the 75th-anniversary celebrations of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra, Sir Sam Jonah lamented the increasing polarization of the media landscape and warned against the influence of political patronage and material rewards on journalistic independence.

    Sir Sam Jonah emphasized the importance of unbiased and professional coverage of the electoral process, considering it to be the most consequential in Ghana’s history.

    He expressed his apprehension about the media’s ability to provide such coverage, citing the handling of issues like galamsey, which he described as an egregious abuse of the rights of millions whose livelihoods have been decimated by illegal mining operations.

    “As we stand on the precipice of yet another electoral milestone, in my view, the most consequential, the echoes of past violence, the whispers of disenfranchisement looms and I don’t think anyone needs reminding that the conduct of the electoral exercise together with its outcome is so important that the nation cannot afford bias and unprofessional coverage of it by members of your profession.

    “I wish I could be confident that the coverage will be professional but am afraid I can’t, given the largely unserious way in which another important national issue- the most egregious abuse of the rights of millions whose livelihood has been decimated completely by galamsey operations, has been treated by your profession,” he said.

    Addressing journalists directly, Sir Sam Jonah urged them to be the bridge over troubled waters, ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of political allegiance, finds solace and strength in the truth.

    He stressed the critical role of the media in fostering national unity and ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.

  • You have gone eerily silent on galamsey and its damage on lives – Sir Sam Jonah to journalists

    You have gone eerily silent on galamsey and its damage on lives – Sir Sam Jonah to journalists

    Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Sir Sam Jonah, has raised concerns about what he sees as a decrease in media coverage of illegal mining activities, or galamsey, in Ghana.

    The respected statesman expressed disappointment at the lack of attention from the media, despite the significant harm and destruction caused by illegal mining to the livelihoods of Ghanaians and society as a whole.

    Speaking at the launch of the 75th anniversary celebrations of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, Sir Sam Jonah expressed his lack of confidence in the media’s reporting on such a serious national issue.

    “As we stand on the precipice of yet another electoral milestone, in my view, the most consequential, the echoes of past violence, the whispers of disenfranchisement looms and I don’t think anyone needs reminding that the conduct of the electoral exercise together with its outcome is so important that the nation cannot afford bias and unprofessional coverage of it by members of your profession.

    “I wish I could be confident that the coverage will be professional but am afraid I can’t, given the largely unserious way in which another important national issue- the most egregious abuse of the rights of millions whose livelihood has been decimated completely by galamsey operations, has been treated by your profession. I don’t know whether you are exhausted and indeed frustrated by the shameful lack of decisive action from the authorities to your interventions. All I know is that your association’s pen which is your weapon has gone eerily silent on this all important matter.”

    He also lamented the health implications and complications caused by galamsey, highlighting that these issues persist despite the clear and evident consequences.

    He said, “the country is experiencing the ravages of this terrible phenomenon every day. The alarming increase in children born with deformities, the epidemic of kidney and liver diseases, and the alarming mortality rates in the areas affected by galamsey activities.”

    “What a shame, what a pity! As journalists, the times we live in beckon you to remember your purpose, power and your responsibility. The price of the continued silence is too grave to fathom.”

    He referenced Ephraim Amu’s timeless composition, “Yen Ara Asase Ni,” and encouraged journalists to promote patriotism, stewardship, and unity.

    Sam Jonah also urged the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to uphold the principles of good governance, justice, and accountability, emphasizing the crucial role of truth in shaping Ghana’s future.

    The GJA’s 75th-anniversary celebration is themed: “75 years of excellence in Journalism: Past, Present, and Future.”

  • “What a shame, what a pity!” – Sir Sam Jonah slams Ghanaian journalists for not being objective

    “What a shame, what a pity!” – Sir Sam Jonah slams Ghanaian journalists for not being objective

    The Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Sir Sam Jonah, has reminded Ghanaian journalists of their crucial role in the country’s democracy.

    He emphasized that their duty to uphold truth, independence, and accountability is non-negotiable.

    In his keynote address at the launch of the 75th Anniversary celebration of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra, Sir Sam Jonah highlighted the importance of objectivity, patriotism, and independence in journalism, especially in the face of current challenges.

    Sir Sam Jonah acknowledged the historical significance of the GJA’s milestone anniversary and expressed his personal support for journalism, emphasizing his belief in the media’s ability to shape society.

    However, he expressed concern about the increasing polarization of the media landscape, citing the decline of neutrality and the rise of partisanship.

    He also warned against the dangers of political patronage and material rewards, which he argued threaten the independence of the media.

    “The once united front of objectivity and patriotism appears, to some, fragmented by the divides of partisanship and the shadows of materialism,” Sam Jonah remarked.

    “Your role as the Fourth Estate is a cornerstone of our democracy, and your duty to hold power to account has never been more critical. The influence you wield is powerful, with the ability to frame political discourse and influence public opinion, making it imperative that this power is exercised with the utmost responsibility and ethical rigor. As we move forward, let us remember the sacrifices made by those who came before us, journalists who laid down their lives for the pursuit of truth and justice. It is upon their legacy that the future of Ghanaian journalism will be built—a future where truth prevails over sensationalism, integrity over corruption, and where the pen remains mightier than the sword in the fight for democratic integrity and national unity,” he said.

  • Sir Sam Jonah calls on Ghanaian journalists to champion integrity in their line of duties

    Sir Sam Jonah calls on Ghanaian journalists to champion integrity in their line of duties

    Sir Sam Jonah has emphasized the critical role of Ghanaian journalists in upholding democracy, stressing their duty to truth, independence, and accountability.

    He asserts that despite challenges, journalists must prioritize objectivity, patriotism, and independence.

    Speaking at the launch of the Ghana Journalists Association’s 75th Anniversary, Jonah acknowledges the media’s historical significance and advocates for its role in shaping society.

    He warns against media polarization, partisanship, and influence from political patronage, which he believes jeopardizes media independence.

    “The once united front of objectivity and patriotism appears, to some, fragmented by the divides of partisanship and the shadows of materialism,” Sam Jonah remarked.

    He underscored the significance of media vigilance, especially during critical junctures like elections. Referencing historical instances, Sam Jonah underscored journalists’ sacrifices for truth and justice, urging contemporary practitioners to maintain integrity and responsibility. He also reiterated their vital function in holding authority accountable.

    “Your role as the Fourth Estate is a cornerstone of our democracy, and your duty to hold power to account has never been more critical. The influence you wield is powerful, with the ability to frame political discourse and influence public opinion, making it imperative that this power is exercised with the utmost responsibility and ethical rigor. As we move forward, let us remember the sacrifices made by those who came before us, journalists who laid down their lives for the pursuit of truth and justice. It is upon their legacy that the future of Ghanaian journalism will be built—a future where truth prevails over sensationalism, integrity over corruption, and where the pen remains mightier than the sword in the fight for democratic integrity and national unity,” he said.

    He further tackled particular hurdles confronting Ghanaian journalism, notably the perceived underreporting on urgent matters like illegal mining (galamsey). He urged journalists to persevere in seeking the truth, despite external influences.

    “As we stand on the precipice of yet another electoral milestone, in my view, the most consequential, the echoes of past violence, the whispers of disenfranchisement looms and I don’t think anyone needs reminding that the conduct of the electoral exercise together with its outcome is so important that the nation cannot afford bias and unprofessional coverage of it by members of your profession. I wish I could be confident that the coverage will be professional but am afraid I can’t, given the largely unserious way in which another important national issue- the most egregious abuse of the rights of millions whose livelihood has been decimated completely by galamsey operations, has been treated by your profession. I don’t know whether you are exhausted and indeed frustrated by the shameful lack of decisive action from the authorities to your interventions. All I know is that your association’s pen which is your weapon has gone eerily silent on this all important matter.”

    While he regretted that galamsey doesn’t make the headlines anymore, he said “the country is experiencing the ravages of this terrible phenomenon every day. The alarming increase in children born with deformities, the epidemic of kidney and liver diseases, and the alarming mortality rates in the areas affected by galamsey activities” appear not to merit the sustained concern of journalists.

    “What a shame, what a pity! As Journalists the times we live in beckon you to remember your purpose, power and your responsibility. The price of the continued silence is too grave to fathom.”


    In his address, Sam Jonah invoked the timeless message of Ephraim Amu’s composition, “Yen Ara Asase Ni,” encouraging journalists to embody patriotism, stewardship, and unity.

    He emphasized the significance of upholding principles of good governance, justice, and accountability within the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), underscoring the pivotal role of truth in shaping the nation’s future.

    The GJA’s celebration revolves around the theme: “75 years of excellence in Journalism: Past, Present, and the Future”.

  • Partnerships, WHO certification, expanding curriculum among ways to address pharmaceutical industry challenges – Sam Jonah

    Partnerships, WHO certification, expanding curriculum among ways to address pharmaceutical industry challenges – Sam Jonah

    Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) and the Executive Chairman of Jonah Capital, Sir Samuel Esson Jonah, have outlined five strategies to help the pharmaceutical industry in Ghana overcome its current challenges and become a driver of economic growth in the country.

    Sir Jonah expressed concern about the industry’s logistical and financial issues, which hinder its ability to reach its full economic potential.

    During his speech at the 2023 Annual Conference of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSG) in Takoradi, he emphasized the need for growth, pointing out that Africa’s share of the global pharmaceutical market revenue is less than $60 billion, out of a total of $1 trillion and $482 billion in 2022.

    “With a population of over 1.4 billion currently representing about 17.89% of the global total, Africa accounts for only about 3% of the global pharmaceutical market. Therein lies the opportunity for growth. So what is holding you back?” he said.

    To address the industry’s challenges, Jonah recommended a collaborative approach involving the general public, local investors, and the government. This collaboration should focus on promoting investments in the pharmaceutical sector through joint ventures.

    “The entrepreneurial and risk-aggressive among you must move decisively to form partnerships with established foreign companies with the purpose of acquiring much-needed technology and liquidity through foreign direct investment,” he said.

    Sir Jonah emphasized the need for pharmaceutical manufacturing companies to modernize their production facilities and attain WHO certification.

    “Aggressively pursue capacity-building to enable more members of the PSG to obtain WHO certification. This is the surest way to firstly retool and re-establish to meet local demand, and then work to export to the sub-region and beyond,” he said.

    Sam Jonah further called for a curriculum overhaul.

    “Improve and expand the curriculum at the seven existing schools of pharmacy in Ghana, and use technical experts from industry as resource persons to provide the needed skills and competencies locally.”

    On a regional level, he stressed the importance of pharmaceutical associations collaborating with their counterparts in Africa and engaging with ministries to promote trade liberalization and ratify agreements that facilitate and strengthen free trade throughout the continent.

    “Your leadership and your African counterparts and respective sector Ministries must work purposefully with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for liberalization of trade rules and signing and ratification of regional agreements that enhance free trade in Africa. This will inure to the growth of your sector,” he said.

    Finally, he emphasized the need for collective advocacy, rigorous enforcement, and increased involvement in public affairs to raise awareness about the proliferation of substandard drugs in the market.

    “Our sub-region currently carries the highest prevalence of dumping of fake and substandard medicine. For every hundred medicines, 18.7 of our people are fake or sub-standard. PricewaterhouseCoopers found that approximately one million people die annually, with nearly half a million being preventable malaria deaths caused by toxic counterfeit pharmaceuticals. Who imports and sells these medicines? Are they pharmacists too?

    “The World Customs Organisation reported that nearly $200 billion worth of fake and potentially harmful pharmaceuticals are sold yearly around the world. Hundreds of thousands of children die from the administration of counterfeits or medicines below accepted standards. Are we sacrificing human life for money?

    “Are we covering up for murderers? Where is the outrage? Do we truly care about the health of our people? Where are the concerned and courageous Pharmacists among you who will speak up? In dire situations like this and many others in our homeland Ghana, I entreat you as individuals, and as a society to remember: Silence is not an option,” he said.

  • I have no interest in being Mahama’s running mate – Sam Jonah

    Renowned business magnate, Sir Sam Jonah, has unequivocally refuted rumors suggesting his potential candidacy as former President John Mahama’s running mate for the upcoming 2024 elections.

    The former head of the Ashanti Goldfields Company Limited has firmly stated that he has no interest in pursuing such a role.

    In a statement on Metro TV’s ‘Good Evening Ghana’ he said, “Anyone who knows me well will attest to the fact that I have no interest whatsoever in going into the murky world of politics.”

    According to Mr Sam Jonah, he turned down offers to be Vice President under former President Jerry John Rawlings in the 1990s.

    “As a matter of fact, if I was interested, I would have been Vice President in 1992 and 1996 when I was offered the position on a silver platter,” he explained.

    Some media outlets have speculated that Mr Jonah will be the NDC flagbearer John Mahama’s running mate, but he has described it as “worthless speculation.”

    The last time former President Mahama contested in the presidential elections, he chose former Education Minister, Nana Jane Opoku Agyemang as his running mate.

    Mr. Sam Jonah is widely recognized globally as an esteemed business icon, renowned for his remarkable achievements. His notable career began in 1986 when he assumed the position of Chief Executive Officer at Ashanti Goldfields Company Limited. Under his leadership, the company expanded from a single-mine operation into a multinational corporation.

    A significant milestone was reached in 1996 when Ashanti became the first operating African company to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange, while already having listings in London and Ghana.

    In May 2004, Mr. Jonah took on the role of Executive President at AngloGold Ashanti Ltd, following the merger of Ashanti with AngloGold Limited. This new entity became the world’s second-largest gold producer.

    Mr. Jonah’s contributions to the business world have been widely recognized. In 2003, he was honored with an Honorary Knighthood as Knight Commander of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) by Queen Elizabeth II and Head of the Commonwealth. Furthermore, he was bestowed with Ghana’s highest national award, the Companion of the Order of the Star, in 2006.

    His impact and influence have been acknowledged on multiple occasions. In December 2004, CNN and Time Magazine included him in their list of the world’s top 25 most influential business people, applauding his leadership, ethical practices, marketing expertise, and innovative approaches. Additionally, Mr. Jonah has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career, including five Lifetime Achievement awards, the most recent being the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award.

  • Times are hard, be humble in your decision making process – Jonah urges govt

    Times are hard, be humble in your decision making process – Jonah urges govt

    One of Africa’s most prominent businessmen, Sir Sam Esson Jonah, has entreated government to put into consideration the livelihoods of citizens when drafting policies meant to assist the recovery of the economy.

    Addressing the fifth session of the 55th graduation of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), the Chancellor of the institution, Sir Sam said citizens are not being shielded but rather government is playing the blame game.

    According to him, “this is not the time for blame game.”

    “We are facing unprecedented times against the backdrop of complex, volatile and uncertain economic and geopolitical developments.

    “This situation has fostered a growing sense of hopelessness and helplessness, particularly among our youth, a development which has the potential to undermine the security and stability of our nation,” the UCC chancellor said.

    Sir Sam Jonah described the economic situation as “very challenging,” with interest rates and inflation at intolerably high levels.

    With the local currency also volatile, the business executive, who chairs the boards of a number of companies across the world, said it made for “a dangerous cocktail.”

    “As we have been witnessing, there are no pretty policy choices for dealing with this situation,” he said. 

    In his opinion, the way forward is to take “our decisions with empathy and a keen understanding of the impact of our actions on the lives of our citizens.”

    “My advice to key policymakers is that the times we live in call for a healthy dose of humility in decision making as we navigate the difficult path of economic restructuring,” he added.

    The ceremony was for persons who completed various postgraduate programmes of study in the 2021/2022 academic year.

    It was graced by the Paramount Chief of the Oguaa traditional area, Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, some Members of Parliament (MPs) and the academic community.

    Make challenges opportunities

    Turning his attention to the graduates, Sir Sam said they must view the challenging times as an opportunity for growth, innovation and change.  

    He said their UCC journey had given them the essential skills needed to weather the current storm and they must now be versatile, innovative and adaptable.

    “You have also learnt that in life, success in any endeavour is a product of hard work, commitment, dedication, discipline and of course, the right attitude.  

    “Let me remind all of you that it is during the most trying moments in history that true leaders emerge and your education has provided you with the tools to become those leaders,” he said.

    Sir Sam urged them to be creative and passionate as that would help them to make a positive impact on society.

    He further encouraged them to stay curious, never stop learning and should not shy away from challenges.

    “Your journey may not always be smooth but persevere because it is through adversity that we grow stronger and wiser.

    The future of our nation lies in your hands,” he added.

  • Leverage current hardship to restructure the economy – Sam Jonah

    Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Dr Sir Sam Jonah, has challenged the State to leverage on the current challenges bedevilling the country to restructure the economy, starting from the agriculture sector.

    He observed that Ghana’s economy, since independence, had been largely import-driven and the insatiable appetite for “everything foreign” was central to her challenges.

    Speaking at the 60th Anniversary grand durbar of the UCC, Dr Sir Jonah indicated that the hardship, albeit global, presented the best opportunity for Ghana to start producing its own goods.

    “Unless and until all of us take concrete measures and actions and implement them to have integrated economy, which will make us less dependent on foreign goods, I am afraid that our economic challenges will be further exacerbated,” he said.

    The cost of food was a major component of every country’s economy and, therefore, it behoved on all stakeholders to take critical steps to improve accessibility and affordability.

    “It is unconscionable that most of the tilapia and frozen chicken Ghanaians consumed are imported from China and the Netherlands and also rely on Burkina Faso for onion and tomatoes.”

    Sir Sam Jonah said the Chinese, having taken over and destroyed the country’s lands, were now producing cocoa and exporting cassava, gari and yam.

    Figures from the Ghana Statistical Service indicate that Ghana’s inflation soared to a record 37.2% in September from 33.9% in August, with food as a major driver.

    Additionally, the country’s currency has assumed a free fall against the dollar with a dollar selling around 14 cedis, a situation that has sparked public hue and cry, especially among traders.

    The free fall of the cedi means that there is higher demand for the dollar than there is supply due to overdependence on foreign countries for most of Ghana’s needs.

    He, therefore, charged the UCC to lead the national effort in using cutting edge technologies and research to assist with the efficient implementation of the government’s economic and agricultural policies.

    “Our School of Agriculture must lead the change in the production of improved varieties of our local foodstuffs, better yielding crops, cheaper poultry and aquaculture feeds among others,” he said.


    “We are entrusting this school with the responsibility of ensuring that we grow we what we eat and eat what we grow.”

    Dr Sir Jonah urged the university, as the best university in Ghana and West Africa, to establish strong bonds with relevant institutions such as the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and other local bodies pertinent to the development of agriculture.

    “As a university, the success in this endeavour will make us more relevant in the noble fight for our economic emancipation.”

    Source: GNA

  • Sam Jonah recommends domestication as solution to economic hardships

    Ghanaian businessman, Sir Samuel Esson Jonah, has indicated the current economic hardship should transform the Ghanaian economy from an import-driven and dependent kind to one that sees the people eat what they grow.

    Speaking at the 60th anniversary of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), on Thursday, October 20, the Business magnate said:

    “Our insatiable appetite and high demand for any and everything foreign is central to many of the challenges we are facing as a country,” he observed.

    “Personally, I feel that unless and until concrete measures and actions are implemented to have an integrated economy, which has at its core, less dependence on foreign goods, I am afraid our economic challenges would be further exacerbated.

    “Without a doubt, we should start with what we eat. I think it is unconscionable that most of the tilapia we consume comes from China. Our frozen chicken comes from the Netherlands and the US and, of course, we continue to rely on Burkina Faso for our onions and tomatoes.

    “Now, I’m told China is exporting cassava and Gari and Yams. The cost of food is a major part of any nation’s economy and it behoves on all of us to do whatever we can to improve accessibility and affordability.”

    The Chancellor of UCC during his speech noted that the University is supposed to lead in ensuring efficient implementation of the government’s agriculture policies.

    Sir Sam Jonah said, “my charge to UCC is that we lead the national effort in ensuring that we use cutting-edge technologies and research to assist with the efficient implementation of government’s agriculture policies.

    “Our School of Agriculture must lead the charge in the production of improved varieties of our local foodstuffs, better yielding crops, cheaper poultry and aquacultural feeds etc. We are entrusting you with the responsibility of ensuring we grow what we eat and eat what we grow.”

    He continued: “In this regard, I expect you to establish and forge strong partnerships, bonds and collaborations with institutions such as the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research and other relevant local bodies pertinent to the development of our Agricultural sector.

    “This urgency and scope of the current global challenges and our own, highlights the importance of cooperation. This is my charge to you and I believe that as a University the success in this endeavour will make us more relevant in the noble fight for our economic emancipation. We owe this to this country.”

    UCC @ 60 durbar saw past and present officials of the University, including former Vice Chancellors and Chancellors, in attendance. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was the Special Guest of Honour and an honorary alumnus.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Why I was knighted by Prince Charles not Queen Elizabeth – Sir Sam Jonah explains

    Sir Sam Jonah KBE, has revealed the circumstances under which the British knighthood was conferred on him by Prince Charles (now King Charles III) instead of his late mother Queen Elizabeth II.

    In an interview on the BBUM show, a personality profile programme on Ghana Television (September 25), the former Ashanti Goldfields CEO said it was a privilege to have been invited and honoured by the British Royal Family.

    Jonah was knighted by Prince Charles in 2003, a ceremony that is ordinarily undertaken by the Queen herself. He explained how an equality important engagement took the Queen away hence the duty was placed on her son.

    “I had the privilege to be knighted by Prince Charles in 2003, it was quite an experience, I was fortunate I took my entire family with me, which was very unusual. Because usually, they would ask you to come with your spouse.

    “I was fortunate because what happened was, that same day, the reason why I was not knighted by the Queen was that, the Queen was hosting President Putin to a state lunch and therefore it fell on Prince Charles.

    “Therefore, Prince Charles said, bring your entire family and so I took my entire family,” he added.

    In his view, the new King is a “hugely understated and underappreciated person,” adding that he has a commanding presence, and unenforced authority and he is a delight to be with.

    He said he felt hugely privileged and fortunate for one-hour meeting his family had with the new monarch at the Buckingham Palace.

    In June 2003, Jonah became the first Ghanaian to be knighted in the 21st century when he was presented with an honorary knighthood (KBE) by the then Prince of Wales, in recognition of his achievements as an African businessman, a leading business executive from the Commonwealth, and an international public figure.

    Source: Ghanaweb.com

  • Why I was knighted by Prince Charles not Queen Elizabeth – Sir Sam Jonah explains

    Sir Sam Jonah, KBE, has revealed the circumstances under which the British knighthood was conferred on him by Prince Charles (now King Charles III) instead of his late mother Queen Elizabeth II.

    In an interview on the BBUM show, a personality profile programme on Ghana Television (September 25), the former Ashanti Goldfields CEO said it was a privilege to have been invited and honoured by the British Royal Family.

    Jonah was knighted by Prince Charles in 2003, a ceremony that is ordinarily undertaken by the Queen herself. He explained how an equality important engagement took the Queen away hence the duty was placed on her son.

    “I had the privilege to be knighted by Prince Charles in 2003, it was quite an experience, I was fortunate I took my entire family with me, which was very unusual. Because usually they would ask you to come with your spouse.

    “I was fortunate because what happened was, that same day, the reason why I was not knighted by the Queen was that, the Queen was hosting President Putin to a state lunch and therefore it fell on Prince Charles.

    “Therefore, Prince Charles said, bring your entire family and so I took my entire family,” he added.

    In his view, the new King is a “hugely understated and underappreciated person,” adding that he has a commanding presence, unenforced authority and he is a delight to be with.

    He said he felt hugely privileged and fortunate for one hour meeting his family had with the new monarch at the Buckingham Palace.

    In June 2003, Jonah became the first Ghanaian to be knighted in the 21st century when he was presented with an honorary knighthood (KBE) by the then Prince of Wales, in recognition of his achievements as an African businessman, a leading business executive from the Commonwealth, and an international public figure.

     

  • Ghana now has zero equity interest in AngloGold Ashanti after it sold – Sam Jonah

    Sir Sam Jonah, a well-known businessman and the former CEO of Ashanti Goldfields, has disclosed that the Ghanaian government has sold all of its interests in AngloGold Ashanti.

    The business tycoon claims that Ghana sold 30% of its stock in the company in 1994.

    However, after the business was listed on the New York Stock Exchange, the remaining 25% was sold.

    He lamented the low level of ownership the nation has in significant corporations and locally-run enterprises, calling the event’s outcome “horrible.”

    According to him, no Ghanaian has any shares in any of the mines in the country.

    Speaking on GTV’s BBUM show on September 25, 2022, he said: “Ghana’s government has 10 percent interest in all the mines but beyond the government, there is no Ghanaian who has [even] 2 percent shares in the mines. Ghana’s government has 55%, and they sold their interest from 55% to 25% in 1994.

    “So, the Ghana government sold and took 400million dollars out and so Ghana government became 25% and not a 55% shareholder and later on we merged and became AngloGold Ashanti. And currently, as we speak, it has zero equity interest in AngloGold Ashanti. The Ghana government had 10 percent in the mines, like Obuasi etc, but as the company that merged, the Ghana government has zero percent of AngloGold Ashanti, which is a shame because we sold,” he said.

    Sam Jonah also stated that in South Africa, all the mines are owned by South Africans which meant that profit was not expatriated and that accounted for Johannesburg’s recognition as a gold mining city.

    Meanwhile, as Ghana currently faces harsh economic crisis, trade unions have asked the government to institute some laws that will ensure that foreigners who do business in Ghana retain a percentage of their profit in the country.

    They believe that this will help address the rapid depreciation of the cedi.

  • My riches has not been as wealthy as has been reported – Sam Jonah

    Sir Sam Jonah, a well-known businessman and the former CEO of Ashanti Goldfields, has clarified information about his net worth and wealth.

    According to many sources, Mr. Jonah’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $1.2 billion.

    Sam Jonah thinks Ghanaians frequently identify him with enormous fortune, which he considers highly inflated, even though this number hasn’t been confirmed.

    Sir Sam Jonah stated during an appearance on the BBUM show on Ghana Television that despite being a wealthy businessman, he is more concerned with claims of his financial value than being defined by his principles.

    “News of my wealth has been grossly exaggerated. Let me just say that my father will be turning in his grave if he thought that I will be defined by how much I am worth in monetary terms,” Sam Jonah said.

    “I will like to be defined by the values that I stand for. I think my worth would come from the values that I hold and the principles that I hold. I want myself to be defined by that than pounds, cedis and pesewas,” the executive chairman of Jonah Capital said.

    Touching further on his net worth claims, Sir Sam Jonah explained, “I think it’s a tragedy people want to be associated with their wealth…There are others who want that but unfortunately, I don’t. One because I don’t have that level of wealth and two, more importantly, I just feel it is crass and it’s not something you should be proud of that you’re defined by what people think you are worth”.

    Speaking on some of the principles which have shaped him over the years, Sam Jonah pointed out “honesty, telling truth to power.”

    “I stand for probity, to use the famous expression I stand for accountability and all the above,” He added.

  • News of my wealth has been grossly exaggerated – Sir Sam Jonah

    Renowned business executive and former Chief Executive Officer of Ashanti Goldfields, Sir Sam Jonah has set the record straight over reports of his net worth and wealth.

    Mr. Jonah’s net worth, according to numerous reports has been considered to be around $1.2 billion.

    While this figure is yet to be verified, Sam Jonah believes Ghanaians have often associated him with vast wealth which he finds grossly exaggerated.

    Speaking on the BBUM show on Ghana Television, Sir Sam Jonah indicated that although he has been a successful businessman, he is more concerned with assertions of his worth in monetary terms instead of being defined by his principles.

    “News of my wealth has been grossly exaggerated. Let me just say that my father will be turning in his grave if he thought that I will be defined by how much I am worth in monetary terms,” Sam Jonah said.

    “I will like to be defined by the values that I stand for. I think my worth would come from the values that I hold and the principles that I hold. I want myself to be defined by that than pounds, cedis and pesewas,” the executive chairman of Jonah Capital said.

    Touching further on his net worth claims, Sir Sam Jonah explained, “I think it’s a tragedy people want to be associated with their wealth…There are others who want that but unfortunately, I don’t. One because I don’t have that level of wealth and two, more importantly, I just feel it is crass and it’s not something you should be proud of that you’re defined by what people think you are worth”.

    Speaking on some of the principles which have shaped him over the years, Sam Jonah pointed out “honesty, telling truth to power.”

    “I stand for probity, to use the famous expression I stand for accountability and all the above,” He added.