Michael, One thing I really admire about you is that you are a true intellectual— intelligent, analytical, yet always modest. Some of my greatest memories with you are the intermittent economic discussions we used to have on the corridor adjoining our offices at Premier Tower in downtown Accra. Those conversations always stood out to me. I’m especially grateful for the time you recommended me for a role in what was then a very innovative sector. That act gave me validation, knowing that someone as smart as you believed in my abilities. I wish you the very best in life— good health, prosperity, continued success in your career, and above all, the continuous grace of God. Kofi Datsa MIchael, You were such a good boy back in the day that I’m not even sure I knew a nickname for you! One thing I really love about you is how deep you are and how well you know your stuff, especially about the mining industry. You are a great advocate and you lead the industry very well. As my boss, I have seen how well-rounded you are—your knowledge of finance, tax, law, and the mining industry is solid, and you understand the sector very well. I knew you from St. Augustine’s College. At Augusco, you were a neat, cool boy and one of the loved juniors around. You were a Dadaba and very smart, and you have carried that same coolness all the way into APSU. I want to thank you for your contribution to the mining industry and the development of Ghana, and on a personal level, together with the Executive Committee of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, for believing in me and keeping me on my toes. On your 50th birthday, I wish you a truly joyful and blessed celebration. This is a significant milestone—not just in years, but in wisdom and experience— which you generously share with us at the Chamber. The prayer of Moses in Psalm 90:12 comes to mind: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Your leadership reflects this principle—showing us how to value each day and lead with insight and integrity. As the Anlo say, a great legacy is built by what you do in your lifetime. Thank you for building a great legacy at the Chamber. May God continue to bless you with health, happiness, and fulfillment in the years to come. Enjoy your welldeserved celebration. Kenneth Ashigbey (Pozo) Mr. Akafia! One thing I truly love about you is how you’re always positive and happy to assist. My fondest memories with you are the times we spent hanging out with you and Martin Ahoney— loads of laughs, great energy, and such a positive vibe all round. We are long overdue for another session like that, Michael… please take note! Thank you for always being there to assist me. I really appreciate it. Michael, have a fabulous day on the day, and remember—you’ll be 50 every day for the next year, so enjoy it and celebrate each day! Happiest of birthdays! Ekua Hayfron-Benjamin In my line of work, I meet many lawyers straight out of school and watch them cut their teeth and find their footing at the bar. You were one of them. The difference with you is that you leave an impression. Whether you stay around or move on, people always remember you and the work you did—and that’s exactly what you did. You are a very hardworking, assiduous lawyer; you love the law, enjoy pushing its boundaries, and thrive on testing theories. I really admire that about you. Through it all, you also became my friend. Even after moving on to bigger things, we’ve maintained our relationship. In fact, at one point, you even became my boss—because you were my client! Michael, I wish you a very happy birthday. You deserve all the best. You deserve to enjoy your day and your time—you’ve worked hard and earned it. You’re an example to many lawyers that it’s possible to excel in law firms, dispute resolution, and corporate/in-house roles—a rare talent. I wish you all of God’s blessings on your special day. Enjoy today and the rest of the year. God bless you! Ace Ankomah The Birthday Journal 41
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