Thomas Mends Kodwo Mercer
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| Born | January 17, 1916 |
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Thomas Mends Kodwo Mercer (b. 17 January 1916) was a Ghanaian-born British colonial administrator and diplomat, who was the first black African to be appointed as a commissioner to the United Kingdom from the Gold Coast (now Ghana).[1]
Early Life and Education
TMK Mercer was born on the Gold Coast in 1916. He received his early education at Achimota School and Adisadel College before moving to the United Kingdom to further his studies.[2]
Career
TMK Mercer began his career as a civil servant in the Gold Coast, where he served in various capacities, including as an interpreter and clerk. He was later appointed as the first African commissioner to the United Kingdom from the Gold Coast in 1954-1956. During his tenure, he advocated for the interests of the Gold Coast and other African colonies, highlighting the need for greater representation and participation in colonial governance.[3]
In addition to his diplomatic duties, TMK Mercer also served as a member of the Gold Coast Legislative Council and was appointed as a justice of the peace in 1902. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Ghana Congress Party, which aimed to advocate for the rights of the Gold Coast people.[4]
Personal Life and Legacy
TMK Mercer was married to Mary Elizabeth Mercer, and they had several children together. He passed away in 2003 and was buried in London. His contributions to the advancement of Ghanaian and African interests in colonial governance have been widely recognized, and he is remembered as a pioneer in the struggle for African representation and participation in colonial administration. His father was the political delegate, James Mercer I. His twin brother was the diplomat, James Mercer II. His nephews and nieces include Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, Sally Hayfron, and Frances Adu Mante.[5]
References
- ↑ Steinberg, S. (29 December 2016). The Statesman's Year-Book: Statistical and Historical Annual of the States of the World for the Year 1954. Springer. ISBN 9780230270831.
- ↑ "15 Ghanaian Politicians who attended Adisco - Supadupanews".
- ↑ "Burial of First African Gold Coast Commissioner to UK". GhanaWeb. 28 November 2003. Retrieved 28 November 2003.
- ↑ Aryeh, Elvis (21 May 2002). "Daily Graphic: Issue 148527, May 21 2002". Graphic Communications Group.
- ↑ Larnyoh, Magdalene Teiko (1 February 2021). "Absa Bank Ghana Limited appoints Frances Adu-Mante as Board Chair". Business Insider Africa. Retrieved 1 February 2021.
External links
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