Alhaji Ayaana Yakubu, a 65-year-old man celebrated for his reported walk from Kumasi to Accra to honour President John Dramani Mahama’s January 7 inauguration, has been rewarded with a new car and other gifts.
An anonymous philanthropist gifted him a Renault KWID, a sum of money, and shopping vouchers worth GH¢5,000 as a gesture of appreciation. The handover ceremony, held at Independence Square on January 8, 2025, was facilitated by renowned broadcaster and personality Kofi Okyere Darko (KOD).
Honouring a Bold Gesture
KOD shared the memorable moment on Instagram, posting a video of Alhaji Ayaana receiving his car keys and expressing gratitude. However, questions persist about whether Alhaji Ayaana completed the entire walk from Kumasi to Accra, as GraphicOnline could not independently verify the claim.
A Lifelong Patriot
This is not the first time Alhaji Ayaana has made headlines for a patriotic act. In 1997, he embarked on a symbolic walk to celebrate former President Jerry John Rawlings’ second-term inauguration. In 1999, he organised a 16-kilometre peace and health walk in Tamale to promote unity and wellness, further demonstrating his dedication to Ghana’s progress.
Inspired Giving
KOD described the moment as a fitting recognition of Alhaji Ayaana’s contributions. “This afternoon, I had the honour of presenting Mr Yakubu—an extraordinary man who walked all the way from Kumasi to congratulate H.E. President Mahama—with a brand-new Renault car, an undisclosed amount of money, and shopping vouchers worth GH¢5,000 from Nineteen57,” KOD wrote on social media.
He also revealed that the anonymous benefactor was deeply moved by Alhaji Ayaana’s commitment and sought to reward him for his efforts.
Gratitude and Determination
Alhaji Ayaana, visibly overwhelmed with emotion, expressed his deep gratitude for the recognition. Despite initial concerns raised by his children and others about his health, he remained resolute in undertaking the journey.
“Although I was discouraged by people, including my children on health grounds, I was optimistic that the walk was for a good cause,” he said.
He thanked all those who made the recognition possible, reaffirming his belief in the power of symbolic actions to inspire unity and patriotism.
Alhaji Ayaana’s story is a testament to the enduring impact of small but meaningful acts of dedication to one’s country.
