Biograph of the late Dr. Samuel Sarpong

By Yaw Opoku Amoako August 15, 2025

Job 14:1-2 – “Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble. He cometh forth like a flower and is cut down; he fleeth also as a shadow and continueth not.”

Dr. Samuel Sarpong, affectionately known as Sammy Tugar and Castro, was born on 7th November 1957 at Adadientem to Mr. Kwabena Mensah Sarpong (of blessed memory) and Mrs. Agnes Boakye Sarpong.

From humble beginnings, he rose to become a distinguished public servant, politician, and community leader whose life was marked by service, courage, and resilience.

His early education took him through Adadientem, Besease R/C, Sefwi Wiawso, and Esease Middle School, where he completed his basic schooling. He proceeded to Osei Tutu Secondary School, then to Wesley College, where he trained as a teacher.

A talented athlete, he excelled in cross-country running and high jump. Upon graduation, he taught at Juaben Secondary School from 1981 to 1982 as a Physical Education and Asante Twi teacher.

Dr. Sarpong’s leadership qualities soon became evident, earning him the role of PDC Coordinator for the Ejisu/Juaben District, where he coordinated the Programme of Action to Mitigate the Social Costs of Adjustment (PAMSCAD).

His quest for advanced knowledge took him abroad — first to Cuba to study criminology, and later to Bulgaria for further studies.

His professional career was broad and impactful, including service with the Special Branch (now BNI), the Ashanti Regional Investigation Committee (ASHRIC) — later the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) — and subsequently the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). He also served as Acting Director of the SFO for the Northern Sector, covering six regions.

In politics, Dr. Sarpong held numerous leadership roles, including Mayor of Kumasi (2009), Ashanti Regional Minister (2013), Central Regional Minister, and Parliamentary Candidate for Nyiaeso (NDC) in 2016. He also served as Director of the State Housing Corporation and later earned an Executive Master’s Degree from GIMPA.

As Vice Chairman of the NDC, he played a pivotal role in strengthening party structures, including the building of the NDC Party Office at Nyiaeso. He was a founding member of the party and treated people with fairness, regardless of colour, creed, or political affiliation.

A respected traditional leader, Dr. Sarpong was enstooled as Nkosohene of Cape Coast. He was married to Mrs. Hannah Sarpong, and together they were blessed with five children — four boys and one girl.

On that fateful day, his life of service and dedication was tragically cut short when he became one of eight gallant individuals who perished in a helicopter crash at Sikaman-Brofoyedu in the Ashanti Region.

Dr. Samuel Sarpong leaves behind a legacy of selfless leadership, unwavering patriotism, and a deep love for family, community, and country. His contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.

Damirifa Due! Due ne Amanehunu!