The Ankrah name appears to resonate with many in Ghana because of the lasting legacies left by a couple of men who have featured prominently in politics, sports and religious space in Ghana.

Though many have suggested that they share the same family roots due to their striking semblance, that claim may be far from the truth.

From politics and journalism to pastoral work, each has made his mark in Ghana through his achievements and contributions to his chosen field.

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Many may not know that out of these prominent Ghanaians only two of them share family ties.

This article gives a spotlight to these four personalities who share the same name but trace their roots to different families:

Rev Sam Korankye Ankrah

Rev Sam Korankye Ankrah is the Apostle General of Royalhouse Chapel International, a church in Ghana attended by several prominent figures, including high-ranking public officials.

His philanthropic and humanitarian work has earned him several honours. In 2008, he received the national honour of Member of the Order of the Volta.

In 2009, he was named Angel of the Year by Pristine Hub Limited and TV Africa Ghana.

Rev Ankrah is also known for his contributions to national discussions on governance and public affairs.

Elvis Afriyie Ankrah

Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, however, is said to be the brother of Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, a seasoned journalist who later became the boss of National Sports Authority (NSA)

Elvis is a politician and member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) who has held several political and ministerial positions.

He has served as Minister for Youth and Sports, Deputy Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, and Minister of State at the Office of the President.

He has also contested a parliamentary seat and currently serves as the Presidential Envoy on Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations.

With more than 28 years in politics, he has played various roles within the NDC and remained active in the country’s political scene.

Yaw Ampofo Ankrah

Yaw Ankrah began his career in journalism, training with the BBC before spending much of his professional life in the media.

He later moved into public service, where he held various positions following his appointment by the state.

He is also known for his contributions to sports in Ghana, particularly beach soccer.

He is credited with founding beach soccer in the country, which has since gained recognition from the African Beach Soccer Union (ABSU), the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and FIFA.

Ankrah has also served as Director-General and a board member of the National Sports Authority before he was asked to step aside because of an ongoing investigation into the vis scandal linked the recent World Cup tournament.

Horace Nii Ayi Ankrah

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Horace Ankrah is also involved in politics and is a key member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

He previously served as Ghana’s Ambassador to China and is the board chairman of the Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO).

MAG/VPO

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