Dr. David Ofosu Dorte, Senior Partner at AB & David Africa, has challenged the common perception that Ghanaians are inherently humble, arguing that cultural behaviors and societal norms suggest otherwise.
Speaking at the Swedru Conversations on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the British Council, Dr. Ofosu Dorte highlighted the widespread use of grandiose titles and ostentatious displays of power as evidence of a deeply ingrained societal trait.
“We’re a very pompous people. I don’t know whose idea it is that Ghanaians are humble people—we’re not. We’re not humble people at all. A humble people will not be carrying people in palanquins often. And we will be dancing on the shoulders of others. We like our pomposity. Look at the titles—we are now beginning to like titles more than our brothers somewhere,” he remarked.
He expressed concern that this obsession with status and recognition hinders effective leadership and governance, as individuals in power focus more on showcasing their authority than on utilizing it for the common good.
“Pomposity is where we need to prove and show our power. If we will fall off this, they will come and hold you. We’re so pompous that each time anybody has power, what he seeks to do is not to utilize that power for the good but to show it,” he added.
Drawing a contrast with other nations, Dr. Ofosu Dorte pointed out the simplicity with which leaders elsewhere are addressed, while in Ghana, even minor public officials insist on elaborate titles.
“That is why people can call the American President ‘Mr. President’ and that is the end of the story. Here, you must add ‘His Excellency’ and every single name. Even the Assemblyman I can employ wants to be called ‘Honorable.’ This leads us to tackle problems we don’t actually face. There are many problems we’re addressing that are not our real issues.”
His remarks serve as a call for introspection, urging Ghanaians to shift from superficial displays of authority to humility-driven leadership focused on solving the nation’s real challenges.
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