Oku Ampofo
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Oku Ampofo | |
|---|---|
| Born | 4 November 1908 Amanase, Akuapem, Gold Coast |
| Died | 1998 (aged 89–90) |
| Alma mater | University and Royal College of Edinburgh |
| Occupations | Sculptor and doctor |
Oku Ampofo (4 November 1908 – 1998) was a Ghanaian sculptor and medical doctor. He became the first Ghanaian to receive a government scholarship to study medicine.[1]
Career
In 1950, he began to specialize in the use of medical herbs and exotic medicines.[3] He is to be considered a pioneer in the use of phytotherapy. He founded the Center for Scientific Research in Natural Medicine.
Ampofo was also an actor and sculptor. He began sculpting during his medical studies in Edinburgh, but later achieved national and international fame.[4] Of particular note is his association the Oku Ampofo foundation which supports community development projects for the people of Ghana and in particular the city of Mampong Akuapem, where for many years he practised medicine. The Foundation supports research on herbal medicines needed to treat critical diseases in Ghana, West Africa and around the world. Ampofo died in 1998[5]
