Remembering Benjamin William Quartey-Papafio: Ghana’s first medical doctor

June 25, 2026, marked what would have been the 167th birthday of Dr Benjamin William Quartey-Papafio, the first Ghanaian to earn a medical degree and practise Western medicine in the then Gold Coast.

The remembrance was sparked by a Facebook post shared by Auntie Dedei, an account known for promoting education and culture in the Ghanaian media space. The post highlighted the remarkable life and achievements of the pioneering physician, whose contributions laid the foundation for modern healthcare in Ghana.

Born on June 25, 1859, in Accra, Dr Quartey-Papafio made history as the first Ghanaian to earn a medical degree and the first Ghanaian to practise Western medicine in the then Gold Coast.

“He began his education at the CMS Grammar School in Accra before continuing at Fourah Bay College in Sierra Leone. Determined to pursue a career in medicine, he travelled to the United Kingdom, where he studied at Durham University and later at the University of Edinburgh.

“In 1886, he graduated with a medical degree, becoming the first person from the Gold Coast to achieve the feat. A decade later, he earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree after conducting research on Blackwater Fever, a severe form of malaria that was prevalent in West Africa,”the post said.

Upon returning home in 1888, Dr Quartey-Papafio joined the Gold Coast Government Medical Service. Despite his qualifications and dedication, he was repeatedly denied promotion because of racial discrimination under colonial rule.

Refusing to allow prejudice to define his career, he resigned from government service and established a private medical practice on High Street in Accra, where he continued serving his community with distinction.
Beyond medicine, Dr Quartey-Papafio also distinguished himself as a public servant and nationalist.

He served on the Accra Town Council, became a member of the Legislative Council and was among the Ghanaian leaders who travelled to London in 1911 to oppose the controversial Forest Bill, advocating for the rights and interests of the people of the Gold Coast.

“His influence extended beyond his personal achievements. He raised a family that produced educators, doctors, lawyers and public servants who contributed significantly to Ghana’s development, while his work helped lay the foundation for modern healthcare in the country.

“Dr Benjamin William Quartey-Papafio passed away on September 14, 1924, at the age of 65. However, his legacy continues to endure as a pioneer whose courage, excellence and commitment to public service opened doors for generations of Ghanaian medical professionals.”

Source: Ghanaweb.com