Jeremy Doku Reaffirms Ghanaian Roots through Heritage, Community and Philanthropy

Belgium international and Manchester City forward Jérémy Baffour Doku, a 23-year-old winger with Ghanaian heritage, has recently visited Ghana in a heartfelt trip to reconnect with his roots and give back to the country of his ancestry.

During his off-season visit, Doku paid a courtesy call to Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, reaffirming his pride in his Ghanaian identity. Accompanied by his father Davies Doku and other family members, Jeremy emphasized: “I’m proud of my Ghanaian roots, I speak Twi, and I want to come back more often to give back to the land of my parents.” 

In another celebrated meeting, Doku was granted an audience with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene of the Ashanti Kingdom, at Manhyia Palace in Kumasi. There, he presented the king with a Manchester City jersey as a symbolic gesture of respect and familial connection. The visit resonated deeply, highlighting his humility and cultural reverence. 

Doku also spent time in Madina, Accra, where he interacted with local youths and participated in pickup football matches on community pitches. His presence thrilled fans, as he showcased skills, including a rainbow flick over an opponent—demonstrating both his talent and commitment to inspiring young players. During the trip, he launched the Jeremy Doku Cup, a grassroots tournament designed to nurture emerging football talent in the local community. 

Beyond community sport, Doku engaged in charitable visits to Komfo Anokye and Achimota Hospitals, where he offered support to patients and staff—a gesture demonstrating that his personal values extend beyond the football pitch. Lady Dentaa, who led the delegation, confirmed that Doku plans to expand these efforts with future initiatives in healthcare and youth development. 

Doku’s connections to Ghana go beyond the formal; he often speaks fondly of Ghanaian culture, particularly its food, music, and dance. He regularly enjoys traditional dishes prepared by his mother and proudly speaks Twi, helping preserve his cultural identity despite representing Belgium internationally. 

While Doku has made his mark in Europe—winning the Premier League with Manchester City and earning caps for Belgium—his Ghana trip signals a broader mission: to blend international success with local impact. As Ghanaian communities celebrate his achievements, they also look to him as a bridge between the diaspora and homegrown talent.

Doku’s visit, filled with cultural reconnection, philanthropy, and football development, stands as a strong testament to how prestige and heritage can combine to uplift communities. His message to Ghana is clear: success abroad carries responsibility at home.

Quick Profile

Name

Jérémy Baffour Doku

Age

23

Club

Manchester City

National Team

Belgium

Heritage

Ghanaian (speaks Twi, embraces culture) 

This blend of professional excellence and cultural pride continues to make Doku a compelling role model for Ghanaian youth and the wider diaspora.