In 1998, Ghana was at a pivotal point in its young democracy. For the first time, the nation would have a civilian president hand over power to another civilian president if the elections in 2000 were successful. Many wondered if President Rawlings, the former military dictator now turned civilian president, would transfer power if the opposition won the 2000 general elections. Others questioned whether sufficient mechanisms were in place to facilitate this transition and strengthen the democratic gains.
During this period, Professor E. Gyimah-Boadi co-founded the Ghana Center for Democratic Development. Over the past twenty-six years, CDD-Ghana has been Ghana’s leading democracy and good governance civil society organization, producing research and policies to support democratic development in the country. Professor Gyimah-Boadi also co-founded Afrobarometer, a pioneering pan-African survey network that began in 12 countries and has since expanded to about 40. Today, Afrobarometer is globally recognized as the world’s leading source of reliable data and analysis on the attitudes, priorities, and experiences of African citizens.
This documentary explores the life and journey of Professor Gyimah-Boadi, from his humble beginnings in New Abirem to his impactful work in public life. We hear firsthand accounts from those who grew up with the Professor and others who have worked with him. It highlights the founding of institutions such as CDD-Ghana, Afrobarometer, the Ghana Integrity Initiative, and the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition.
This documentary captures the process of pro-democracy and good governance institution building in Africa, celebrates Professor Gyimah-Boadi’s achievements throughout his journey as a public intellectual, and encapsulates the essence of democracy resilience, building, and sustenance in Ghana.