Cameron Duodu at 88: A life penned with purpose

As Cameron Duodu celebrates his 88th birthday, we reflect on his life. He is a veteran journalist, novelist, broadcaster, and social critic. His journey has been marked by integrity and intellectual depth.

Cameron was born on May 24, 1937, in Asiakwa, Ghana. He did not have the privilege of formal education due to financial constraints. However, he pursued knowledge with determination. Starting as a pupil teacher, he enrolled in a correspondence course from Rapid Results College in London.

In just 15 months, he passed his O-Level and A-Level exams. This achievement highlighted his passion for reading and learning. Cameron once said he never felt handicapped by his lack of formal education. “Reading helped me in my work as a journalist,” he noted.

His love for reading laid the foundation for an extraordinary career. Cameron began at New Nation magazine before joining the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC). There, he became editor of radio news. Later, he edited the Ghana edition of Drum magazine—becoming the first African to do so.

In the 1960s, Cameron gained national prominence as editor of Daily Graphic. His incisive editorials earned him both admiration and resistance. As a freelance journalist, he wrote for major publications like The Guardian and The Economist.

He also contributed to South and Index on Censorship magazines. Cameron became a familiar voice on BBC World Service, explaining African politics and culture to global audiences. Today, he still writes for New African and City Press.

Beyond journalism, Cameron is also a literary figure. His novel The Gab Boys explores post-colonial identity and ambition. Published in 1967, it has become essential reading in African literature.

When asked about his best articles, Cameron humorously replied about needing more space to share stories from his career.

My connection with Uncle Cameron runs deep through family ties. Two of his children were my classmates at St. Augustine’s College in Cape Coast. Our families are intertwined through friendships formed over many years.

I have enjoyed long conversations with him about various topics over cold beers with friends like Prof. Kofi Awoonor and my late father Col. Peter Mama Agbeko.

Even at 88 years old, Cameron remains engaged in national issues like illegal mining or galamsey in Ghana's environment. He calls it an "existential threat" and encourages continued writing on this topic.

Though not Catholic by birth, Cameron admires Pope Francis for his humility and courage—qualities that resonate with him deeply.

This year at the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) awards night, Cameron received recognition for his contributions to journalism. The GJA honored him for pioneering work that influenced generations of journalists.

His legacy extends beyond articles; it lives on through those inspired by him—myself included. As we celebrate his birthday today, we honor a life dedicated to truth and justice.

Happy birthday to Uncle Cameron! You are truly a national treasure who continues to inspire us all.