By: Kwame Bediako
Belgian professional footballer of Ghanaian descent, Jérémy Baffour Doku, currently playing for Manchester City, has officially received his Ghanaian passport for the first time, an important step reflecting his strong desire to maintain ties with his Ghanaian roots despite representing Belgium internationally.
The 23-year-old winger’s dual citizenship allows him to embrace both identities, underscoring his commitment to Ghana’s sporting future.
Doku’s Ghanaian heritage was celebrated during a recent visit to Ghana where he met with the Sports Minister, Kofi Iddie Adams.
During this visit, Doku expressed appreciation for the Ghanaian support throughout his career and pledged to give back to local communities through charitable initiatives.
Fluent in Twi and proud of his ancestry, Doku emphasized his intention to return frequently to contribute to the development of football and youth empowerment in Ghana.
The new passport acquisition is more than a symbolic gesture, it signals Doku’s intention to deepen ties with Ghana beyond his international club commitments.
Ghanaian officials, including the Sports Minister, hailed Doku as a global ambassador of Ghanaian excellence whose professionalism and humility serve as a role model for young athletes across the nation. The minister also highlighted the importance of nurturing homegrown talent inspired by Doku’s successful career trajectory.
Doku’s journey reflects a modern dual-national athlete balancing multiple identities while using his platform to impact both his countries of heritage and birth. His engagement with Ghanaian institutions aims to expand philanthropic efforts and strengthen football development programs, offering mentorship opportunities to aspiring players.
Plans are underway for him to attend youth football clinics organized by the Ministry, fostering closer ties within Ghana’s sporting community.
