Support Yeboah Agyekum Francis — He Is Doing the Work Many Feared to Start

Yeboah Agyekum Francis is, for now, doing a stellar job. Don’t condemn him. Support him. — Mansa Musa writes ✍️

The first time I came across one of his videos on Facebook, I knew instantly that this young man was onto something meaningful. For weeks now, I’ve found myself eagerly waiting for each new episode of his social media health podcasts. Even though, in my case, his valuable health tips have arrived nearly 40 years too late, I still appreciate every bit of them.

In his bold yet refreshing style, this young man is filling a gap Ghanaians—especially Twi/Akan speakers—have suffered for far too long: communicating health issues in a language the overwhelming majority understand. That should be celebrated, shouldn’t it?

But, as usual, the familiar culture of negativity has reared its head. I am told that some doctors and members of the health and paramedical fraternity have publicly expressed displeasure with YAF’s approach to educating the public.

Let’s be clear: no one has accused him of spreading false or harmful health information. No one has disproved his academic background or expertise. If that is the case, why oppose a young man doing something genuinely beneficial?

We know he obtained the necessary academic qualifications from a reputable university. But, as is common in our part of the world, the jobs simply aren’t enough for all qualified graduates. So after school, he returned to a vocation he already had—barbering and beauty grooming. In his spare time, he sits behind a camera and microphone to educate Ghanaians in the Akan language on how to care for their health.

Ladies and gentlemen, fellow Ghanaians, what exactly is wrong with that?

Now comes the most troubling part: the sudden intrusion of some pastors into the matter. Barefaced liars are claiming that God has revealed something sinister about YAF and that misfortune awaits him. These pronouncements have reportedly frightened his mother so much that she has publicly pleaded with her son to stop this important work.

I would advise YAF’s mother to do the opposite. Support him. Encourage him. Stand by him the same way mothers of young men drafted into war do—hearts aching, yet offering prayers, strength, and unwavering belief. Just as Madam Nyaniba supported her son, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, I urge the mother of Yeboah Agyekum Francis to stand firmly behind her son.

Do not stop him. Because, for now, he is the one doing God’s work.

Let us all support him.

Thank you.