Sammi Awuku: a Shining Example of Transformational Leadership

The strategic transformation of public institutions in Ghana is arguably the most daunting leadership task for government appointees and leadership hierarchy in general. Short of existential threats to their personal interests, it is difficult to imagine why leaders would even contemplate any far-reaching innovative ideas that would vigorously transform the institutions for which they are appointed to head within a specific timeframe.

Undoubtedly, leadership crisis has over the years thrived in Ghana because quite often, politicians who would move mountains to earn their slot for all the top hierarchy positions (especially during elections), suddenly tend to relax in the delivery of their mandate as soon as their appointment is confirmed. No wonder work ethics across public institutions have remained ‘business as usual’ despite the periodic shuffling of institutional heads.

In spite of this, one area where Mr Sammi Awuku, the National Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has over the years distinguished himself extraordinarily to the admiration of many, is his exceptional leadership performance at all the offices where he served.

Indeed, Mr Awuku through his performance, has proven to be a shining example of transformational leadership in Ghana and hardly goes unnoticed when the names of self-motivated and Influential Young Ghanaians are mentioned. Incidentally, he has consistently featured in the top five (5) of such rankings organised by the reputed rating establishment - Avance Media. Prior to this, he had been named amongst top 50 rising African stars by the Paris-based Africa Report Magazine in 2014. In fact, the list is uncountable.

From the ruling party office where he served as the Deputy Communication Director of the NPP, his data- driven submissions and effective communication skills on radio and TV were very instrumental in shaping the minds of the Ghanaian youth to embrace the NPP’s policies and programs. Having effectively championed the party’s political strategy in opposition, promoting the NPP as the party with the best policies with generational impact, and offering hope to the youth, it was obvious that he would later be elevated to a higher national executive position.

Upon his election as the National Youth Organiser, Sammi Awuku played a vital role in mobilizing the Ghanian youth for change, leading to NPP's massive victory in 2016. He effectively helped to rebrand the party and sought to ensure that the party becomes attractive at all times.

With the youth at the centre stage of his strategy, he helped to champion the NPP’s vision effectively. His leadership credentials were ultimately put to test in the 2018 national executive elections where his resounding victory (wining with tens of thousands of vote beyond his immediate competitor) confirmed that he is truly an exceptional asset in Ghana’s political framework in whom the people trust.

Indeed, the President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo must have been well informed when he appointed Sammy Awuku, as the current Board Chairman of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) after winning the 2020 elections successfully.

Moreover, as the youngest Director General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) in Ghana’s history, his appointment a few months ago, has brought a new direction and his first 100 days in office were recorded as a period of fulfilled promises. It is an established fact that his appointment has immediately helped to revive the NLA to an unimaginable dimension and he is well celebrated for this feast. He has been lauded for introducing urgent reforms which resolved problems such as the non-availability of payrolls and the usual non-payment of big wins which were major concerns for the lotto business. Ultimately his presence has energized and revived the dying spirit of the NLA staff at a time most needed.

Today, Sammy Awuku is extremely admired by many for his strong passion and genuine commitment towards NPP party faithful, democratic governance, youth empowerment and public sector reform; making him an influential role model and a symbol of hope for the Ghanaian youth.

It is my fervent prayer that he will continue to excel in all spheres of human endeavour and continue to stand out as the catalyst for public sector reforms in Ghana.