DR OKU AMPOFO Ghanaian, 1908-1998

Artist

Dr. Kwaku Oku Ampofo (1908-1998) was an extraordinary figure whose life wove together the realms of art and medicine in a tapestry of unprecedented accomplishments. He was not only a distinguished sculptor and a revered allopathic medical practitioner but also stood as a vanguard of Pan-African cultural advocacy in Ghana.

The Healing Hands and Artistic Spirit

Studying medicine at the esteemed Edinburgh University and the Royal College of Edinburgh and Glasgow from 1933-1939, Dr. Oku Ampofo became a pioneer in the use of herbal medicine. His fervor for healing extended beyond conventional medicine, culminating in the establishment of the Center for Scientific Research into Plant Medicine in Akuapem-Mampong, Ghana.

A Symphony of Sculptures

Dr. Oku Ampofo's artistic journey began as a mere hobby during his medical studies in Edinburgh. His sculptures, crafted from vibrant hardwoods, cement, and terrazzo, not only exuded exceptional aesthetic beauty but also revealed an intimate understanding of the materials. They depicted the cultural and socio-religious essence of Ghanaian life, mirroring his profound connection with his homeland.

A Visionary in Healthcare

Upon his return to Ghana in 1939, Dr. Oku Ampofo encountered the scarcity of medical practitioners. This prompted him to establish his own clinic, becoming one of the first Ghanaian doctors to receive a scholarship for medical studies in the Gold Coast. His dedication led to the establishment of the Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital, forever marking his contribution to healthcare in the region.

The Birth of a Healing Legacy

Dr. Oku Ampofo's desire to integrate traditional plant medicine with scientific research culminated in the founding of the Centre for Plant Medicine Research (CPMR). He played a pivotal role in advising the Government of Ghana in establishing the CPMR, now an eminent institution in the production and manufacturing of plant medicine.

Legacy of a Pioneer

Dr. Kwaku Oku Ampofo's legacy is etched in the annals of Ghanaian medicine and art. His pioneering efforts in the scientific research of herbal medicine and the establishment of the Center for Scientific Research into Plant Medicine stand as a testament to his enduring impact.