COP (Commissioner of Police), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah was born on August 19, 1969, in Konongo, Ashanti Region, Ghana.
She has carved a distinguished path in law enforcement.
As the Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), she continues to make significant strides in combating economic and organized crime in Ghana.
Early Life and Education
Born to Mr. Kwame Adiya-Nimo and Nana Adwoa Agyekumwaa II (Queenmother of Banka).
Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Addo-Danquah has eight siblings.
Her early education took place at Roman Catholic Primary and Middle Schools and Bompata Secondary School, laying a solid academic foundation.
Her pursuit of higher education led her to the Kumasi Polytechnic where she earned a diploma in Business Administration Accounting Option.
She further enhanced her qualifications with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance from the University of Cape Coast Business School.
Professional Development
COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah is not only a law enforcement officer but also a Chartered Forensic Accountant.
She is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (FCA).
Additionally, she is an Associate Member of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners.
Ghana Police Service
Maame Yaa's journey in the Ghana Police Service began on July 27, 1990.
Her career is marked by a steady ascent through the ranks, reflecting her hard work, competence, and dedication.
-Deputy Director-General of CID: Before taking the helm, she served as the Deputy Director-General, gaining invaluable experience in managing criminal investigations.
-Director-General of CID: Maame Yaa made history as the first woman to be appointed Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).
In this role, she oversaw major criminal investigations, playing a crucial part in the administration of criminal justice in Ghana.
Leadership at EOCO
Appointed as the Executive Director of EOCO, Maame Yaa leads the agency in its mission to investigate and prosecute economic and organized crimes.
Her tenure is marked by strategic initiatives to enhance EOCO's capabilities in tackling complex financial crimes, money laundering, and corruption.
Under her leadership, EOCO has implemented advanced investigative techniques and fostered collaborations with international law enforcement agencies.
Notable Achievements
-High-Profile Cases: Throughout her career, Maame Yaa has handled several high-profile cases, showcasing her ability to manage complex investigations under pressure.
-Policy Development: She has significantly contributed to the development and implementation of policies aimed at improving the efficiency and transparency of Ghana's criminal justice system.
-International Collaborations: Her leadership has strengthened EOCO's partnerships with international law enforcement agencies, enhancing the fight against transnational crimes.
Integrity and Accountability
Known for her strong sense of integrity, Maame Yaa is committed to ethical conduct.
She advocates for accountability and transparency, setting high standards for her colleagues and subordinates.
Dedication and Resilience
Her career reflects a profound dedication to public service.
She has demonstrated resilience in facing challenges, particularly in dealing with organized crime and corruption.
Visionary Leadership
Maame Yaa is recognized for her visionary leadership, focusing on long-term strategies to address systemic issues in crime prevention and law enforcement.
She emphasizes continuous improvement and adaptation to new threats.
Mentorship and Advocacy
Beyond her administrative and investigative roles, Maame Yaa is a passionate advocate for women's empowerment in law enforcement.
She mentors younger officers and encourages more women to pursue careers in policing and leadership roles.
Communication and Public Engagement
With strong communication skills, Maame Yaa often engages with the media and the public to provide insights into her work and EOCO's operations.
Her ability to articulate complex issues clearly has helped build public trust in her leadership.
Impact and Legacy
COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah's impact on Ghana's law enforcement landscape is profound.
Her efforts in tackling economic and organized crime have contributed to a safer and more just society.
As a trailblazer for women in law enforcement, she leaves a legacy of excellence, integrity, and resilience, inspiring future generations of law enforcement officers.
Personal Life
Maame Yaa is married and a mother of three.
She enjoys reading and watching investigative movies, which aligns well with her professional interests.
Publications
She has one notable publication to her credit: "Organised Crime and its Effect on Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth" (British Journal of Economics Management and Trade, Vol. 15 Issue 4).
Associations and Memberships
-Immediate Past President: Association of Women Accountants, Ghana
-Member: International Association of Women Police (IAWP)
-President: Ghana Police Ladies Association
-Council Member (2020/2022): Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana
Ekuo Na
COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah (Mrs), was sworn in as the ‘Ekuo Na’ of Holy Family Akan Society for the Accra Catholic Archdiocese.
The historic event which took place at the St Peter’s Catholic Church in Osu, coincided with the 54th Birthday of the Senior Police Officer who is a devout Catholic and member of good standing.
National President of the Holy Family Akan Society, Mr Albert Joseph Kodua who gave a background of the association which is 45 years old after being formed in 1978, revealed that challenges in understanding sermons in English and Ga by the Akan community inspired its formation.
“Our forbearers in Catholic faith in Accra who were Akans, could readily understand sermons in English and Ga as was the practice at the time. A petition was therefore submitted to the then Archbishop of Accra Diocese, Dominic Kodwo Andoh. He set a committee to look into the concerns and it granted the permission for the birth of Holy Family Akan Society for the Accra Catholic Archdiocese”, he revealed.
According to the National President, only a Baptized Catholic, Communicant, contribute to the growth and development of the Church, adding that the person holds the position till death.
It is in the light of this COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah (Mrs) was chosen in view of her enormous contributions to the church and the various societies she belongs to in the Church.
Maame Tiwaa Addo-Danquah replaced Late Mrs. Esther Hamilton of St. Anthony Catholic Church at Taifa who passed on in 2022.
COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, on her part thanked the National Executives of Holy Family Akan Society for nominating her for the role.
“My Parish Priest told me it is an honour for me to be nominated for this role. He and other Priests promised to rally behind me in my new role"
"I use this opportunity to urge the Akan community here in Accra not to forget our roots and support each other. Let us also help the growth of the Church from where we hail so that they will grow"
"We should not make it appear as though the work of God only exists in Accra churches. God is everywhere ”
Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah's career is a testament to what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and a commitment to public service.
Her legacy as a trailblazer and role model for women in law enforcement continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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