In a dramatic turn of events, a Ghanaian entrepreneur, Awuah Darko Ampem, has sought refuge in Canada after enduring a year-long ordeal of violence, threats, and persecution in his home country.
His story, marked by tragedy and relentless fear, underscores the challenges faced by individuals caught in the crosshairs of local conflicts and unchecked power.
Born on 4 June 1987, Awuah Darko Ampem was raised in Nkwanta South by his father, a teacher. With roots in Bonwire and Juaben in the Ashanti Region, he spent much of his early life in Nkwanta before moving to Accra with his family.
He pursued higher education at Accra Technical University, graduating in 2011. Married to Gifty Kokui Fomenyah, the couple has three children.
In 2022, Ampem embarked on an ambitious business venture. On 3 March, his stepbrother, Joseph Alorsu, facilitated the purchase of a one-acre plot from the Challa tribe in Nkwanta South, with the vision of establishing a water processing business. By 8 June 2023, after successful negotiations with local chiefs, the land acquisition was formalised.
The project’s commencement on 20 October 2023 coincided with Nkwanta South’s annual yam festival. Though reassured by local leaders that the celebrations would not interfere with his work, Ampem soon found himself entangled in a deadly ethnic conflict.
On 27 October, he received a devastating call: two of his workers had been killed, and another severely injured amid violent clashes between the Akayode and Challa ethnic groups over ritual rites for the festival. The unrest left 22 dead and forced hundreds to flee the town.
Fearing for his safety, Ampem refrained from returning to Nkwanta. His attempt to console the bereaved families led to an alarming confrontation. A man, whom he described as a powerful and influential figure, issued grave threats, vowing to use his connections to ruin Ampem’s life. Just days later, on 2 November, six armed men attacked him in Accra, breaking his legs as a “lesson.”
Subsequent events escalated his fears. His shop was looted, gunshots were fired at his home on 13 November, and unknown assailants attempted to demolish part of his Nsawam residence. Reports to the police yielded no protection, with authorities citing a lack of evidence to act.
As the threats intensified, Ampem took drastic measures. He went into hiding in Kumasi, separated from his family, and sought a means to escape Ghana. Through an agent, he applied for a Canadian visa on 2 December.
By 4 February, his application was approved, marking the beginning of his final departure. On 7 April, with the help of his wife, he boarded an Air France flight from Kotoka International Airport to Canada.
Although his family remains in Nsawam, Ampem sees Canada as his only safe haven. “I believe permanently relocating to Canada is my best option to save my life and to be there for my family. I trust in Canada’s ability to protect me,” he states.
Haunted by the physical, psychological, and emotional toll of his past year, Ampem is resolute in his decision never to return to Ghana. His ordeal is a chilling reminder of the perils faced by many in regions fraught with ethnic tensions and unchecked power, where justice remains elusive for those who need it most.
