I I have always loved hats. Over the years, I have worn many of them. Some simply because I liked the way they looked, and others because of the roles life called me to play. There was the hat of the young boy from Vakpo with dreams bigger than the world he knew. The naval officer who went to sea. The Commander entrusted with ships and men. The public servant called upon to serve his country in different capacities. The husband, father and grandfather devoted to his family. The community man always willing to lend a hand. And through it all, the man of faith who trusted God to guide his path. Each hat tells a part of my story. Together, they tell the story of a life shaped by service. To God be the glory 85 years! Service has followed me in many forms throughout my life. Sometimes it came through the positions I held, and at other times it simply meant making myself available wherever there was a need. I like people. I like to work, and I like to serve. That has been a large part of my life. I have served on committees, in communities and organisations, in the Ghana Armed Forces and, above all, in the service of Mother Ghana. Even after years of public service, I continued to find fulfilment in working directly with people and helping those who were less privileged. That desire to serve drew me to the Lions Club and has kept me there for more than three decades. When all is said and done, I would like to be remembered for service, humility, integrity, honesty and compassion. Of all the hats I have worn, however, somehavemeantmore tome thanany title or position. The hats of husband, father, grandfather, family man and friend. My family and the people who have shared this journeywithme have been among God’s greatest blessings inmy life. I hope my life continues to reflect that of a humble man who gives his best, loves his family and community, serves with dedication and integrity, and always seeks to make a positive difference in the lives of others. At 85, I am deeply grateful. I thank God for the life He continues to give me, for every hat I have been privileged to wear, for the people who continue to share this journey with me, and for every opportunity I have had and continue to have to serve. The hats may have changed over the years, but the man beneath them has always tried to remain the same. For God and Country! COMMODORE STEPHEN GEORGE YAO OBIMPEH The Hats That Tell My Story A N E C D O T E 2 The Birthday Journal
The hats may have changed over the years, but the man beneath them has always tried to remain the same. “ The Birthday Journal 3
Content The Boy Before the Commodore 07 15 22 28 TheMaking of a Naval Officer A Lifetime of Service Anchored in Love, Family and Faith 4 The Birthday Journal
Celebrating a Distinguished Statesman at 85 Dear Commodore Obimpeh (Rtd.), Happy 85th birthday. Reaching this blessed age is a remarkable testimony to God’s grace, and I send youmy warmest congratulations on this glorious occasion. Commodore, you have devoted the greater part of your life to serving Ghana with distinction, integrity, and a deep sense of patriotic duty. It remains a point of great pride for me that in 2016, I had the distinct honour of conferring upon you the Order of the Volta in recognition of your decades of exemplary service to our homeland. Beyond your outstanding record of public and military service, you occupy a cherished place in our hearts. To many of us in the National Democratic Congress (NDC), you are far more than an elder statesman. You are a beloved father figure, a pillar of strength, and a trusted mentor whose profound wisdom and counsel we continue to cherish. As you celebrate this glorious entry into the nonagenarian years, my prayer is that Almighty God continues to preserve you in good health, peace, and strength. May the years ahead bring you deep fulfilment, joy, and precious moments with the family and loved ones who adore you. Happy Birthday, Commodore. We salute your extraordinary legacy and thank God for the blessing of your life. H.E. JOHNDRAMANIMAHAMA President of the Republic of Ghana The Birthday Journal 5
First year at GSTS on Ghana’s first Independence Day, 1957. 6 The Birthday Journal
Before the Commodore oy The Roots in Vakpo Clad in a cloth around my neck, my skinwell oiled, my hair shorn and a slate tucked under my arm, I would walk barefoot with my friends through the hot brown sand, sweat pouring down our faces. Our chatter filled the air as we cracked jokes and teased one another. We would quicken our steps, eager to arrive early at the Vakpo Adomi Catholic primary school, knowing the strokes of the cane that awaited us if we were late. At lunchtime, there was hardly any time to rest. We would walk all the way home from school, attend to our chores and then head straight to the farm to harvest cassava and collect firewood. Before leaving, we would quickly put some cocoyam on the fire to roast. The Birthday Journal 7
By the time we returned, tired and hungry, the cocoyamwould be ready, hot and smoky, its skin charred from the fire. There was no time to sit down and enjoy it. We would carefully wrap the piping hot cocoyam in a piece of cloth and set off again for school. As we walked, we would unwrap our little bundle, break off pieces of cocoyam and eat along the way, blowing on each bite to cool it before quickly putting it into our mouths. With the afternoon sun beating down on us, we would eat as we walked until the school came into sight. By the time we arrived, the cocoyamwas usually finished. We would dust ourselves off and head straight back into the classroom for the afternoon lessons. I was born on September 26, 1941, in Vakpo in the Volta Region. My mother was Regina Yawabosio Baku, andmy father, Matheo Obimpeh, both of blessedmemory. Both of my parents were from Vakpo, and although they each had other children, I was their only child together. I was born into the Amuyao Royal Family. My grandfather was Gbogbolulu II, aka Henry Kwaku Obimpeh. I was the only child born tomy mother and father together, but I was never really an only child. I was part of a larger family, surrounded by siblings, cousins, nephews, nieces, uncles, aunties and grandparents who were all part of my early life. My mother had another son, Sylvester Kosi Anku, who later followed a path similar tomine by joining the Ghana Navy and is now retired. Onmy father’s side, I had a brother, Peter Komla Obimpeh, who lives in Kpando, and an older sister, Akosua Obimpeh, whom I remember frommy childhood but who sadly passed away in her thirties. My father was a mason, or what we called a bricklayer. He was a goodman, tall, handsome and very hardworking. In addition to his bricklaying, he took up cocoa farming at Fodome, although I never visited his farmor knew exactly where it was. I did not spendmuch time living with him. Onmy mother’s side, farming was very much a part of life. My maternal grandmother was a groundnut farmer, andmy mother followed in her footsteps, growing both groundnuts and okro. Some of my earliest memories are of living with my paternal grandmother and cousins in Kpando, where I stayed until I was about seven years old. Her home was an important part of my childhood, and growing up surrounded by family gave me a strong sense of belonging and of always having a place to call home. 8 The Birthday Journal
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My paternal grandmother was a devout Catholic and had a strong influence onmy faith during the years I lived with her in Kpando. Although my mother was Presbyterian, I remained Catholic when I latermoved back toVakpo to livewithmy motherandmaternalgrandmother.Iwasbaptised around 1953, when I was about 12 years old. My Catholic upbringing also shaped my early education. I started primary school at the Vakpo Adomi Roman Catholic School around 1949. In those days, there was a simple way of determining whether you were old enough to start school: you had to stretch your hand over your head and touch the opposite ear. At the time, the school was one of the best in the Kpando District and attractedmany pupils from the surrounding villages. I remember going to school on my first day with a cloth tied around my neck, as my uniformhad not yet been sewn. School life was interesting. We walked to school barefoot, and one of my very good friends was the lateMatthew Ziku. Each morning, we had to arrive early to sweep our allocated plots before classes began. We ran a double shift, closing at 12 noon and returning at 1 p.m. for the afternoon session, which ended around 5 p.m. During that short break, we would hurry home, attend to our chores and sometimes go to the farm before racing back for afternoon classes. I did very well academically, particularly in arithmetic, which was one of my favourite subjects. I progressed quickly through school and was fortunate to skip some classes. After ClassOne, Imoved straight toClassThree and was later advanced again. The primary school headmaster, the late Mr. Matthias Attah, took a particular interest in me because I was very neat and doing well academically. Little did I know then that he would one day become my father-in-law. After primary school, I continued to middle school, where I took and passed the Common Entrance Examination in 1956, earning a place in secondary school. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life, one that would soon take me farther from Vakpo than I had ever been before. 2026 GSTS Founders’ Day. 10 The Birthday Journal
The Day “Clayton” Was Born We were a group of young boys playing near the Evangelical Presbyterian (E.P.) Church cemetery, surrounded by thick bushes. Our shouts and laughter filled the air as we chased our little ball.We called the game “tennis,” although it was nothing like lawn tennis. Among us was one big boy, Kofi Adedime, who terrorised everyone. Whenever the ball disappeared into the bush, he would order one of us to retrieve it. We were all afraid of him and usually did as he said. Then one day, the ball went flying into the bush, and he ordered me to go after it. I refused. He came charging towards me. My heart was pounding, but somehow, I found the courage to standmy ground and throw one big punch. Down he went. The boys erupted in cheers and lifted me into the air as though I had won a championship fight. From that day, they called me “Clayton,” after Ronnie Clayton, the celebrated British featherweight boxer and former Commonwealth champion. It was one of my earliest lessons in courage. I learnt that being afraid did not mean I could not stand my ground. Before long, I would need that courage again, this time to leave everything familiar behind. That night, as I lay on my mat waiting for dawn, my packed trunk and chop box were beside me. Vakpo and Kpando were all I knew. This was home, filled with familiar paths, family, friends and the places where my childhood memories had been made. It was also where my dream of becoming an engineer had first taken root. Takoradi, on the other hand, existed only in my imagination. I was excited, but I was also afraid. My family had sacrificed to bringme this far, and I felt the weight of the opportunity before me. I wanted to make them proud. As I waited for morning, I knew that if I was going to fulfil my dream of becoming an engineer, I would have to work hard. At dawn, I would leave everything familiar behind and take my first real step towards that dream. After passing the Common Entrance Examination, I gained admission to Government Secondary Technical School (GSTS) in Takoradi, where I began school in January 1957. I had always wanted to become an engineer and had a keen interest in technical The Birthday Journal 11
work, so GSTS was a natural choice for me. Many of my colleagues from the Volta Region might have chosen schools such as BishopHerman or St Augustine’s College, but I was drawn to GSTS because of its strong technical focus. My parents were delighted that I had passed the Common Entrance Examination, althoughmy father worried about how he would afford my education. Sadly, he died that same year, when I was only 15. It was a painful loss at a time when a new chapter of my life was just beginning. My uncle, the late Herman Yao Obimpeh, stepped in to look after me and support my education, providing uniforms, clothing and other school necessities. I did not have a scholarship during my first year, but by the end of that year, I received one. From then on, my fees were covered, and because GSTS was a government school, books, stationery and many other necessities were also provided. Going to GSTS also meant travelling farther from Vakpo than I ever had before. Fortunately, the late Rudolph Mensah, who was from our area and already a student at GSTS, accompanied me. My family entrusted me to his care for the journey to Takoradi. It was a long journey because the roads were poor in those days. At Senchi, we crossed the Volta River by ferry because there was no bridge at the time. We continued to Accra, spent the night there and left very early the following morning, arriving in Takoradi around 4 p.m. Secondary school was an entirely different environment. I was assigned to House One, Ritchie House, where the prefects helped us settle in and guided us through school life. I was a quiet boy, very committed to my studies, and I particularly enjoyed the practical work in the workshop. As Ihadno relatives inTakoradi, I rarelyused theSaturday exeat to go into town unless I went with friends. However, I was very active in school. I was the second goalkeeper on the football team, played cricket, participated in athletics, particularly the high jump, and was also a member of the school cadet corps. Cricket gave me the opportunity to travel. We went to Kumasi to play Opoku Ware and later to Tamale to play Ghana Secondary School. Those were my first visits to both cities. I believe we won in Tamale and lost the other game. GSTS was also very strong in athletics, and I competed in the high jump at the national secondary school level. I remember travelling to Achimota in Accra for a national schools competition. GSTS was an all boys school, so we had very little interaction with girls. At Achimota, when we entered the dining hall, some of the girls began laughing and teasing us. They were much more confident than we were and could probably tell that we were shy. We simply ignored the teasing, concentrated on our meals and prepared for the competition. 2026 GSTS Founders’ Day. 12 The Birthday Journal
A Distinguished Giant At the 2026 GSTS Founders’ Day Distinguished Alumni Awards, Commodore Stephen George Obimpeh was honoured for his distinguished service to Ghana, leadership and contribution to national development. A proudmember of the GSTS Class of 1961, his journey from the Ghana Navy to public service reflects a lifetime devoted to country and community. Receiving the honour on behalf of his fellow awardees, he expressed his gratitude and left the younger generation of Giants with a simple call to service: “May we all be called to service. God bless our homeland Ghana andmake our nation great. Giants, Giants, I thank you.” —Commodore Stephen George Obimpeh (Rtd.) The Birthday Journal 13
Chief of Naval Staff (Navy Commander), 1978. 14 The Birthday Journal
Naval Officer Ship Ahoy! I would stand at one of the highest points at GSTS and stare out towards the sea. Before me were enormous ships, their towering hulls rising from the water, while smartly dressed naval officers and sailors moved purposefully across their decks. The salty sea breeze blew against my face, and beyond the ships, the morning sun rose over the horizon, casting its golden light across the rippling water until the sea looked like moving sheets of gold. TheMaking of a The Birthday Journal 15
I was fascinated. GSTS was close to the harbour, and whenever I had the opportunity, I would walk over simply to watch. I wondered how such massive vessels could move across the sea and what it took to keep their enormous engines running. It soon became clear to me that behind these great ships were engineers. That discovery only strengthened a dream already growing within me. I wanted to study engineering. Little did I know, as I stood on the shore admiring those ships, that one day I would not simply be watching them. I would build a life and career at sea. In FormFive, as I approached the end of my time at GSTS in Takoradi, I began to consider what would come next. I sat several entrance examinations and applied to what is now the Kwame NkrumahUniversity of Science and Technology, as well as Winneba Teacher Training College. I also had the opportunity to continue my education at GSTS. I gained admission to Kumasi, but unfortunately, my mother and uncle could not meet the financial obligations, so I was unable to take up the offer. I was also admitted to Winneba but decided not to go. Then another opportunity presented itself. GSTS invitedme to join its Sixth Formwith a full scholarship and an additional allowance. It was an attractive offer, and I accepted, becoming part of the school’s pioneer Sixth Form class in 1961. At the same time, however, another door was quietly opening. I had also taken the entrance examination for the GhanaMilitary Academy (GMA) and attended the Young officer in Takoradi, 1966 16 The Birthday Journal
selection board. While I was in Sixth Form awaiting the results, a telegram arrived inmy village inviting me to join the Academy. It was subsequently forwarded tome in Takoradi. When I received the telegram, I went straight tomy housemaster, Mr. HansenNortey, who tookme to see the headmaster, Mr. AduAmpomah. The headmaster was reluctant to let me leave. I was one of the better students and was doing particularly well in science, especially chemistry, so he questioned why I wanted to give up Sixth Form. It was not an easy decision. I was doing well at GSTS and could have stayed to complete Sixth Form, but deep down, I knew I wanted to take this opportunity. Joining the Armed Forces would give me the chance to serve my country and begin a completely different journey. I did not knowwhere that journey would take me, but I was ready to take the chance. Eventually, the headmaster acceptedmy decision and gave me his blessing to leave. In 1961, I left Sixth Formwithout completing it and entered the GhanaMilitary Academy at Teshie in Accra. It was a decision that would completely change the direction of my life. When the Academy later called for those interested in joining the Navy, I immediately saw an opportunity to pursue my interest in engineering. The Navy offered several career paths, including engineering, supply, finance and electronics. Engineering appealed tome most. I sat the required examination and attended an interview. Fortunately, I passed both and was selected to join the Navy. Within four months, twelve of us were on our way to the United Kingdom for further training. From 1962 to 1965, I trained at the Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth, where I receivedmy formal training as a naval officer. The programme lasted about three years and included approximately a year of practical training at sea. I was commissioned into the Ghana Armed Forces with notional effect from30 September 1962. By the end of my training at Dartmouth, the young boy fromVakpo who had once dreamed of becoming an engineer was now a commissioned naval officer, embarking on a career of service to his country. With the President of the U.S. Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island, 1973. The Birthday Journal 17
Britannia Royal Naval College, UK, 1964 AccompanyingMrs. Amedume andMr. Akuffo at the commissioning of the Ghana Navy ships Yogaga and Achimota in Germany. 18 The Birthday Journal
Acting Sub-Lieutenant inmy final year at Britannia Royal Naval College The Birthday Journal 19
A Brilliant Career Somewhere between the roar of the engines below deck and the sweeping view of the open sea from the bridge, my dream began to change. I had joined the Navy wanting to become an engineer, fascinated by the machinery that powered those enormous ships. But as my training progressed, I found myself increasingly drawn to the bridge, where officers navigated the vessel, made decisions and directed the crew. I began to picture myself there, standing on the bridge, with responsibility for an entire ship and everyone aboard her. I no longer wanted simply to understand what made a ship move. I wanted to command one. At the time, engineers generally did not command ships, so I decided to transfer to what we called the Executive Branch. The Navy Commander, Rear Admiral Hansen, was not particularly pleased withmy decision because I was doing well in mechanics, mathematics and other technical subjects. Nevertheless, I was determined, and the transfer was eventually approved. That decision changed the course of my career, placing me on the path of navigation, administration, management and, ultimately, command. I specialised as a navigator at HMS Dryad, near Portsmouth, and later returned to the United Kingdom for further training at HMSGreenwich in London. The Armed Forces gave us excellent training and a strong foundation for progressing through the ranks. I was also fortunate to have role models such as Captain George Bedu-Addo and Admiral Hansen, who took over command of the Ghana Navy from the British and became something of a godfather tomany of us. Over the years, I served in several positions, including Staff Officer for Communications and Intelligence, Director of Personnel Administration, Naval Officer in Charge of theWesternNaval Command in Takoradi, Chief Staff Officer at Ghana Navy Headquarters, and Commanding Officer of Ghana Navy Ships Afadzato and Ejura. My professional development continued alongside these appointments. In 1974, I completed the Naval Staff Course at the U.S. Naval War College inNewport, Rhode Island, obtaining a Diploma in Defence and Strategic Studies. In 1976, I attended a Senior Management Course at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). I returned to the U.S. Naval War College in 1978 for the Senior Naval Command Course, earning a Higher Diploma in Defence Studies. Each appointment and course prepared me for greater responsibility, from commanding ships to serving as Chief Staff Officer. In 1979, that journey culminated in my appointment as Chief of Naval Staff, placing me at the helmof the Ghana Navy. I assumed the position at the rank of Naval Captain and was promoted to Commodore in 1980. I served as Chief of Naval Staff until my honourable discharge from the Ghana Armed Forces in 1982. Reception for officers of the IndianNavy shipMysore in Takoradi, late 1970s 20 The Birthday Journal
In 1979, that journey culminated in my appointment as Chief of Naval Staff “ After a meeting withHead of State General I. K. Acheampong andmembers of the SupremeMilitary Council at Burma Camp, Accra, 1973 The Birthday Journal 21
On board the vessel commissioned inmy name, GNS Steve Obimpeh, at Sekondi Naval Base. 22 The Birthday Journal
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24 The Birthday Journal
The story of Farmers’ Day, for me, goes back to 1983, one of the most difficult periods in Ghana’s history. The country was facing severe food shortages following drought and devastating bushfires. At the same time, more than a million Ghanaians were returning home fromNigeria. As National Coordinator of Operation Exodus, I was responsible for helping to implement the decision that the returnees should not remain in camps. We appealed to international agencies for relief supplies and helped the returnees return to their towns and villages, ensuring that the supplies reached them in their communities. But relief alone was not the answer. We needed people producing food again. I encouraged the returnees to form cooperatives and go into farming. We called them Returnee Farms, concentrating onmaize, cassava, peanuts and sorghum. We also introduced a food-forwork programme. Some groups became involved in cocoa rehabilitation and replanting after the bushfires had destroyedmany cocoa farms. Recognising the Farmer By 1986, the rains had returned, the farms were doing well, and I felt these hardworking farmers deserved recognition. By then, I had been appointed PNDC Secretary for Agriculture. We organised the first event at Osino, where outstanding farmers received Wellington boots, bicycles, cutlasses, radios and certificates. One of the early celebrations was later held at Akatsi, andFarmers’ Day eventually began rotating from region to region. When I later became Minister of Agriculture, I felt strongly that Ghana should have a proper national occasion to say thank you to our farmers. And so Farmers’ Day began. Theprizesgrew. I rememberoneyear I suggested that the best farmer should receive a pickup truck. The late President Jerry John Rawlings asked me why. I explained that a farmer could load bags of fertiliser and seed, haul tools and harvested crops from the fields, and take his wife to themarketwithbaskets of produce in the back. He agreed. One of my proudest moments came when, working with colleagues, we pushed for the first Friday in December to be declared National Farmers’ Day and a public holiday. When Pres. Rawlings announced it, I jumped up. I remember thinking, “I have achieved it!” It remains one of the major achievements of my public-service career. The selection process was designed to be transparent and independent. The Ministry of Agriculture was not directly involved in the assessment. Agricultural experts from the University of Cape Coast and the University of Ghana assessed the farmers based on their performance. Today, Farmers’ Day has grown into a major national celebration, with prizes ranging from farmmachinery and vehicles to houses. Giving Ghana’s Farmers Their Day How a difficult chapter in Ghana’s history helped inspire a national tradition 26 The Birthday Journal
shipping company. This was much closer tomy naval andmaritime experience. I approached the assignment with the same discipline I had brought from the Navy, describing what needed to be done as a “surgical operation” to address improper practices and strengthen the organisation. In January 1983, I was given an assignment that would test my leadership in an entirely different way. Following an order by the Nigerian Government under President Shehu Shagari requiring undocumented immigrants, including a large number of Ghanaians, to leave the country, I was appointedNational Coordinator of the National Task Force responsible for bringing our compatriots home. I travelled to Nigeria to assess the situation and returned to Ghana to coordinate what became known as “Operation Exodus.” Working from the Trade Fair site in Accra, we coordinated the return of approximately 1.2million Ghanaians by land, sea and air. Rather than establish permanent camps, as recommended by the local office of the UnitedNations Development Programme (UNDP) in Accra, we documented the returnees and helpedmove them to their respective regions, districts and communities. I also supervised the distribution of emergency relief supplies under the National Emergency Food Programme from 1983 to 1984. The integrity with which I handled the food distribution exercise received high commendation from the donor community and brought honour to Ghana. My performance on the Task Force subsequently encouraged the government to establish a permanent body to handle national emergencies and disasters, the National Mobilisation Committee (NMC), now the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), withme as its first Chairman. As Chairman of the NMC, I spearheaded the evacuation of another large number of Ghanaians who were deported fromNigeria, as well as fromCôte d’Ivoire, in 1985. I also established and nurtured a There was relief at being home, but also uncertainty. For many, their villages and families were still hundreds of miles away. Howwould they get there? And after years away, how would they begin again? At the Trade Fair site in Accra, the scale of the movement became clear. Families gathered as officials documented their arrival and organised transportation. At the harbours, more returnees arrived by ship and had to be received, registered and directed onwards. Our responsibility was not simply to bring them across the border. We had to receive themwith dignity and, most importantly, help them complete that final journey home. Leaving the Ghana Armed Forces in 1982 was a major turning point for me. The Navy had shapedmuch of my adult life, and suddenly I found myself stepping away from the uniform, the ships and the command structure that had become so familiar. I did not know exactly what the next chapter would bring, but I knew that my years of service had preparedme to contribute in other ways. Not long afterwards, Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings, the Head of State, called onme to serve again. I was initially offered an appointment at the State Fishing Corporation, but I felt that it did not align closely with my professional background. The organisation also had a reputation at the time for practices that concerned me. As I put it, “I was not trained to be a fisherman.” I was subsequently appointed Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) Officer in Charge of Black Star Line, Ghana’s state Sports activities with some PNDC Secretaries of State, 1986 28 The Birthday Journal
corps of dedicated volunteers known as theMobilisation Squads (MOBISQUADS). They assisted farmers, particularly cocoa farmers, in rehabilitating farms destroyed by the 1983 bushfires. I led the MOBISQUADS to work on farms as we sought to alleviate the severe food shortages caused by the bushfires and compounded by the sudden influx of our compatriots returning fromNigeria. The success of these evacuation andmobilisation exercises propelledme into the political limelight, and in 1986, I was appointed PNDC Secretary for Agriculture. In that role, I formulated the Ten-YearMedium-Term Agricultural Development Programme (MTADP) and secured funding from several international development partners, including theWorld Bank, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Sasakawa Global 2000 Foundation of Japan. This support helped strengthen theMinistry of Agriculture’s Extension and Crop Services Departments and contributed to increased agricultural production. Ghana eventually reached the point where we were exporting maize to Angola and other countries in the region. I had left behind the bridge of a naval ship, but I had not left behind the lessons the Navy had taught me. Leadership, discipline, organisation and service to country continued to guide me, only now on a very different shore. Courtesy call by senior members of the Retired Commissioned Officers Association on President J. E. A. Mills, 2009. Interaction with President John Evans AttaMills, 2012. The Birthday Journal 29
Companion of the Order of the Volta I looked at the invitation in my hand with pleasant disbelief. Had I indeed been nominated for one of the highest State honours in the Republic of Ghana? Awarm feeling washed over me as I took a deep breath and smiled. It felt good to know that my many years of dedication and service to my country were being recognised. There were times inmy career when I watched people who had come after me move ahead of me, and I could not help but wonder, “When will my turn come?” It was difficult, and there were moments when I thought of walking away. But something kept me going. I stayed, I worked and I continued to serve. In the end, my time came. By the grace of God, I rose to become Chief of Naval Staff and went on to serve my country in several other capacities. Those periods of disappointment taught me an important lesson: recognition may not come when you expect it, but that should never stop you from giving your best. Receiving the Companion of the Order of the Volta, Civil Division, in 2016 was therefore a deeply humbling moment for me. I had never served with the expectation of receiving an award, so having my years of service recognised in this way meant a great deal tome. My journey had takenme through many forms of national service. After leaving the Navy, I oversaw the movement and resettlement of Ghanaians repatriated fromNigeria during Operation Exodus. I later served as aMember of Parliament, Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Health. For me, the award was not about any one achievement. It represented a lifetime of service tomy country, my community and humanity, which made it especially meaningful. 30 The Birthday Journal
Serving Through the Lions Club There I was, a government minister, but in the Lions Club, titles did not matter. What mattered was being willing to serve, to reach out to those in need and to do whatever was required. It was a different kind of service from public office, but one that spoke directly to something that had always been important to me: helping people. Along the way, it also gave me memorable experiences, including the privilege of meeting and working with the late President Jimmy Carter, who was also a member of the Lions Club. I joined the Lions Club around 1994, when I was serving as a minister. Membership was by invitation from an existing member, and I was happy to join because I admired the humanitarian work of the organisation, particularly its support for the needy, the poor, and people who are blind or visually impaired. For me, being a minister did not mean that I was too important to serve at the community level. I was prepared to get involved and do whatever was required. Lions Clubs International even recognisedme for my willingness to serve humbly despite the position I held at the time. Over the years, the Lions Club has remained an important part of my life. I am still a committedmember of the Accra Premier Lions Club. I served as President of the club and later became a Zone Chairperson, with responsibility for a group of six clubs. What has kept me involved all these years is quite simple: I like to serve humanity. The Lions Club gave me another opportunity to do that. With President Jimmy Carter (USA) at an international conference while serving asMinister of Agriculture, 1994 Delegation fromLions Clubs International District 418 Ghana at the 1st Africa Forum in Lusaka, Zambia, 2019 After a Lions Clubs International meeting in Accra The Birthday Journal 31
inLove, Family andFaith Anchored 32 The Birthday Journal
The LadyWho Caught My Eye She was my headteacher’s little daughter. I was just one of his pupils. Neither of us could have imagined how our story would unfold. I rememberedHelenas the littlegirlwho often followed her father, Mr. Matthias Attah, around the school compound. Years passed, life took me away from home and eventually into the Navy, but our paths would cross again. While receivingmy formal training as a naval officer in theUnitedKingdom, an unexpected connection brought Helen back into my life. I met a fellow Ghana Navy colleague, Patrick Attah, who happened to be her brother. Patrick had come to the United Kingdomwith other Ghana Navy sailors to bring a ship, GNS Asuansi, back to Ghana. Wemet inPortsmouth, andsomewhere in our conversation, I asked about Helen. Patrick gave me her address, and I began writing to her. At the time, I could not have known where those letters would eventually lead. She told me that she replied to some of them, although, strangely enough, I never received her letters. Still, something had begun. When I returned to Ghana in 1965, fate seemed to lend a hand. The Navy posted me to Takoradi, where Helen was completing her postsecondary education at Holy Child Training College. This time, she was no longer the little girl I remembered following her father around the school compound. I remember going to see her, dressed smartly in my white naval uniform. Shewas therewith her brother, smiling beautifully. I took one look at her and thought, “Wow, this is the lady.” And I think she liked what she saw too. We clicked. This time, the little girl frommy school days had grown into the woman who would become my wife and my companion for more than five decades. The Birthday Journal 33
Steve with his beloved wife, Helen, of blessedmemory 34 The Birthday Journal
Beginning Our Life Together 4th January 1969. On a crisp winter’s day in London, Helen and I stood before God and promised to walk through life together. I remember looking at Helen and feeling so happy that this beautiful young woman had chosen me. We were young, in love and excited about beginning our life together. And, I must say, I thought I looked rather smart too. After signing the marriage register, we stepped outside for our photographs. Standing beside Helenon thechurchsteps, bouquet in hand and that beautiful smile on her face, I felt like a very lucky man. Then we climbed into the wedding car, sat side by side and smiled from ear to ear. We did not know what life had in store for us. All we knew was that we had each other, and that was enough. Our relationship developed, and by 1966, we had decided to get married. We first had our customary marriage in Ghana, after which Helen joined me in the United Kingdom, where I had returned to undertake a specialization course in navigation. In 1969, we solemnised our marriage at St Philip the Apostle Catholic Church inHerndon, London. Brigadier General Dzogbenuku, who was serving in London as Defence Attaché at the time, stood in for Helen’s father and gave her away inmarriage. When our time in the United Kingdom came to an end, we returned to Ghana aboard a Black Star Line ship, ready for thenext chapterof our life together.Our first child, Kenneth, was born after our return. I was very excited to become a father, and having a son as our firstborn made the occasion particularly special to me. Coming from a patrilineal Ewe family, where the family line is traditionally carried through the male line, it meant a great deal tome. Over the years, our family grew, and we were blessed with six children: Kenneth, Mabel, Cheryl, Daniel, Steve Jnr andHenry. We did not know what life had in store for us. All we knew was that we had each other, and that was enough “ Steve andHelen on their wedding day, 1969 The Birthday Journal 35
We spent much of our early family life in Takoradi. However, my career meant that there was always some travelling. My young family accompanied me to the United States when I went there for further studies. When we returned to Ghana in 1978, we eventually settled in Accra. A Faith That Sustained Us Who would believe that, before walking into Mass at Christ the King Church that Sunday, Helen and I had been bickering over something so insignificant? I cannot even remember what it was, but at the time, neither of us was ready to give in. Then the priest spoke about forgiveness, reminding us to forgive not merely seven times, but “seventy seven times.” Helen and I looked at each other and smiled. Suddenly, our little argument seemed rather foolish. When I think about my life, I have many reasons to be grateful. Through the highs and lows, through love and loss, my faith has remained an anchor. “ Danny, Henry, Mabel, Dad, Cheryl, Kenneth and Steve 36 The Birthday Journal
Then came Communion, and Helen’s favourite hymn began: “Sweet Sacrament Divine, Hid in Thine earthly home…” I could see Helen becoming completely absorbed in the hymn. The irritation disappeared, pride gave way, and forgiveness flowed easily. That was the beauty of sharing our Catholic faith.We couldwalk intoMass carrying the little frustrations of marriage and leave remembering what truly mattered: love, forgiveness and the promise we hadmade before God. Marriage was not always easy. Two people come together from different customs, traditions and backgrounds, and they have to learn how to live together. I often say at weddings and engagements that marriage is like the waves of the sea. There are highs and there are lows. It cannot always be smooth. What kept Helen and me together was compromise. There had to be “give and take” fromboth sides. But there was also something deeper that sustained us through those changing tides: our faith. Helen and I were both staunch Catholics, and we tried to live according to the teachings of our faith.We attendedMass regularly and prayed at home. I believe our shared faith helped us through the difficult times and gave us evenmore reason to be grateful for the good ones. As theyearspassedandwegrewolder together, our relationship deepened into a very special companionship. We had raised a family, weathered life’s highs and lows, and shared so much together that we understood each other in away that only came with time. In May 2023, my beloved wife passed away after a protracted illness. Her passing left a great vacuum in my life. After more than five decades together, adjusting to life without her has been difficult and very lonely. It ismy faith, togetherwith the love ofmy family, that continues to sustainme.My childrenvisitme regularly, and thosewho live abroad invite me to spend time with them. By God’s grace, and with the love and support of my children and the larger family, I continue to move forward, carrying with me the memories of the many years Helen and I shared. Personally, I try to worship God and pray every day. I believe the good Lord hears my prayers and answers them. I have seen the hand of God at many points in my life. Even at Helen’s funeral, after days of heavy rain, we were blessed with perfect weather on the day. I saw that as divine intervention. Passing examinations, receiving promotions, going to sea and returning safely, and being blessed with children, children in law and grandchildren are all things I regard as answered prayers. When I think about my life, I have many reasons to be grateful. Through the highs and lows, through love and loss, my faith has remained an anchor. Steve and his beloved wife, the late Helen Steve with his children The Birthday Journal 37
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Leadership Is About People Titles may open doors, but leadership is ultimately about people. Whether commanding sailors, receiving returning Ghanaians during Operation Exodus or serving in government, the work was always about the lives affected by the decisions being made. Fromhis life: During Ghana’s difficult period of drought, bushfires and food shortages, he served as the first Chairman of the National Mobilisation Committee, helping to coordinate efforts to get the country back on its feet. He was also involved in establishing National Farmers’ Day, recognising the farmers and fishermen whose contribution to the country deserved to be celebrated. Commodore Steve George Obimpeh’s public service career crossed the Armed Forces, emergency national assignments, ministerial office, Parliament and public boards. He served as Chief of Naval Staff, helped coordinate Operation Exodus in 1983, held portfolios in Agriculture andHealth, representedNorth Dayi in Parliament and later chaired the Public Procurement Authority. Be ReadyWhen Duty Calls Not every assignment will be planned. From service in the Armed Forces to Operation Exodus and later government, there were moments when the country needed him in unfamiliar roles. He stepped in and got on with the job. Fromhis life: Whenmore than a million Ghanaians were expelled fromNigeria in 1983, Commodore Obimpeh was called upon to coordinate Operation Exodus, the enormous task of receiving returning Ghanaians at the borders and helping them make their way back to their regions, towns and villages. It was far removed from commanding a naval vessel, but it was a job that had to be done. 5 Lessons from Commodore’s Life in Public Service ByMansa Agyare 1 2 40 The Birthday Journal
Don’t Be Afraid to Learn Something New A naval officer becomingMinister for Agriculture and laterMinister for Health might seem an unlikely journey. But public service often means moving beyond what you already know, asking the right questions and surrounding yourself with people who take initiative and understand the work. Fromhis life: His career took him from the bridge of a naval ship to the Cabinet table. He served as Chief of Naval Staff, took on national emergency assignments, becameMinister for Agriculture, laterMinister for Health, and also served in Parliament. The subject matter changed, but the discipline, organisation and leadership he had learnt in the Navy went with him. DoWork That Can Continue Without You Good public service should leave something behind. Programmes, stronger institutions and systems that continue long after you have moved on are often more important than having your name remembered. Fromhis life: AsMinister for Agriculture, he formulated the Ten-YearMediumTermAgricultural Development Programme (MTADP) and secured support from international development partners to strengthen theMinistry’s Extension and Crop Services Departments. And decades later, National Farmers’ Day is still celebrated. Both are reminders that some of the best work in public service is the work that carries on after you have left. KnowWhen the Job Is Done Public office does not last forever, and it should not define your entire life. The position changes, the office passes to someone else, but your values, relationships and reputation remain. Fromhis life: Commodore Obimpehmoved through many chapters: naval officer, Chief of Naval Staff, national coordinator, minister andMember of Parliament. He served in different capacities when called upon, and when each chapter ended, he moved on to the next. Perhaps this is the biggest lesson of all: serve when you are called, give the work your best, and when it is time to leave, leave knowing you did your part. 3 4 5 The Birthday Journal 41
Poppy, there are so many things you have taught us over the years, sometimes without even realising it. One word I will always associate with you is initiative. How you loved that word when we were growing up! You were always reminding us to see what needed to be done and get on with it. More importantly, we watched you live it. I didn’t appreciate it then, but today I realise howmuch that simple lesson has shaped me. I also learnt humility from you. Your humility is very admirable and refreshing in today’s world of selfishness. Despite everything you have achieved, you have never made a fuss about it I still smile when I remember the special white Navy uniform you had made for me as a child. I wore it so proudly to aNavy parade in SekondiTakoradi. It is one of those little memories of you that I will always treasure. Thank you for all the sacrifices youmade for us, for the example you set and for the many lessons you passed on to us. Happy 85th Birthday, Poppy! I pray for good health, lots of laughter and many more happy years with us. Kenneth Happy Birthday, Daddy! Happy 85th Birthday, Daddy! I am, and will always be, a Daddy’s girl. What I cherish most is the unique bond we share and the comfort of knowing that you are always there for me. You never miss an opportunity to celebrate me, especially on my birthday, and I deeply appreciate every journey you have made to Houston just to be with me. One of my favourite memories was surprising you and Mumwith a cruise for your 50th wedding anniversary. We had such a wonderful time in Belize andMexico. Mummade us laugh when she said she was afraid of the water, only to become the first person posing for photographs once we boarded! The most memorable part for me was formal night. Watching you dressed up and reliving your naval days—and seeing how happy you were—made the entire trip unforgettable. Daddy, thank you for a lifetime of love and sacrifice. You have always put your children first, and even as an adult, you continue to make me and my family a priority. Your love, presence and unwavering support mean more to me than words can express. I am truly blessed to be your daughter and grateful for the gift of you. May God continue to bless you with joy, peace, strength and many more beautiful years. I love you, Daddy! Mabel Daddy, we know howmuch you love birthdays, so when your 85th fell on a Saturday, we knew it had to be a celebration! You have always made our birthdays special. Today, it is our turn to celebrate you and thank you for your love, sacrifices and guidance. 42 The Birthday Journal
Daddy, you simply refuse to grow old! You continue to embrace new challenges, especially technology, and you enjoy spending time with everyone, whether young or old. Some of my favourite moments with you are our occasional visits to the pubs or clubhouse in Ghana and the UK, where we sit together and share memories. I treasure those times. On your 85th birthday, I especially want to thank you for your presence in my life. Your strength has been my shelter, and your love has shaped my world. You are my hero and my wise guide. May the years ahead bring you the love, laughter and strength that you have so freely given to us. You deserve it all. Happy 85th Birthday, Daddy. I love you. Cheryl Happy 85th Birthday, Poppy! From dropping me off on my first day of school to crossing continents to watch me graduate in both the United Kingdom and the United States, you have always been there. Your commitment and dedication to hard work are among the qualities I admire most about you. Throughout my life, your example has taught me the importance of discipline, perseverance and showing up for the people we love. Old Boy, thank you for a lifetime of love, steady guidance and strength. I wish youmany more years of good health, deep happiness and continued joy. Happy Birthday, Poppy! Danny The Birthday Journal 43
Poppy, today is about you and only you. You have always put everyone else first, but on your 85th birthday, we celebrate and honour you. I love the way you carry yourself. Your discipline is unrivalled, and the example you have set continues to guide me. I am especially grateful that you raised me in the Lord and gave me a strong foundation in faith. One of my greatest memories is of you taking us out to eat on Sundays after church in Ghana. Those simple family moments have remained very special to me. Happy Birthday, Dad. May the good Lord bless you today and always. Hats off to you, Poppy. Love always. Steve Commodore, we are grateful for your kindness and wisdom. Happy 85th Birthday! We wish you good health, happiness and many more blessed years. The Numetus Happy 85th Birthday, Old Boy! As a child, the weekend trips to Tema were always very exciting. I enjoyed the scenery of the plains along the TemaMotorway, the sea on our way back and, of course, the stopovers at the Point for refreshments. Those are memories that have stayed with me. As I have grown to become a man, I now fully understand the meaning of the song “To Be aMan.” I appreciate more and more of your efforts as time passes by. The correction, the cold shoulder days, the whipping, the encouragement, the silence... In retrospect, I would have found it difficult raising me. But for your stubbornness, that kid who struggled in class would have had a very different story. At one point, some proposed that I undergo an apprenticeship. However, because of your stubbornness, we pushed through, and today I am a lecturer. I have also always appreciated that you are straight to the point. You never left us wondering where you stood, and looking back, I appreciate that even more. Thank you for being the father you have been, Old Boy. Happy 85th Birthday! More blessings, grace, good health, prosperity, happiness and more wealth. Henry 44 The Birthday Journal
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