Ghanaian gospel star Mercy Twene, popularly known as Ohemaa Mercy, has recounted the overwhelming emotions she experienced when former President John Agyekum Kufuor recognised her for her contribution to Ghana’s music industry.

The singer recalled that the invitation to the Osu Castle came as a major surprise, leaving her extremely nervous as she made her way to the presidential residence.

“Sometime around 2009 or 2012, one award that really encouraged me came after I had released my third album. I was invited to the Castle by President Kufuor. When I was going, I was shivering. Being invited to the Castle was something I had never imagined,” she said.

According to Ohemaa Mercy, she remained uncertain about the recognition even after arriving at the Castle. She said it was only after hearing veteran broadcaster Kwame Sefa Kayi mention her name that she realised the honour was genuinely meant for her.

“I thought they had probably made a mistake and mentioned the wrong name. Honestly, I was the last person to pick up my brochure because I still didn’t believe it. It was only when I heard Kwame Sefa Kayi talking about it and mentioning my name that it finally sank in. I cried throughout the day.”

The gospel musician said the presentation became one of the most emotional moments of her career, particularly because of the significance of receiving the honour directly from a former president.

“Honestly, I can’t fully describe how I felt. They were tears of joy. Going to the Castle, seeing soldiers salute me, and then having President Kufuor hold my hand and present me with the award. Jesus Christ is truly amazing,” she added.

Ohemaa Mercy’s recollection highlights how unexpected recognition at the highest level of the country can leave a lasting impression on an artiste, especially at a formative stage of a career.

Watch the interview here:

Wow! Ohemaa Mercy recalls how surreal it felt to be invited to the Castle by former President Kufuor to receive her very first awarda truly remarkable milestone in her career
Watch #primetime here: https://t.co/c6qIDUppdX pic.twitter.com/gLxzXtQkSz

— Joy Prime (@JoyPrimeTV) August 19, 2026

Source: Yvonne Nyarko Agyemang