Mrs. Mabel Sarfo, affectionately known as “Auntie May,” is being celebrated for her outstanding service and dedication as she approaches retirement from the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipal Assembly.
Her career, spanning over 36 years, has been marked by her unwavering commitment and professionalism.
Mabel Turkson, born to the late Mr. Joseph Kwamena Bentum Turkson and Miss Elizabeth Asaaba Quansah, came into the world on August 23, 1964, in Kumasi.
Her parents, originally from Winneba in the Central Region, were blessed with seven children, with Mabel being the third-born. Although the family has faced the sorrow of losing two siblings, five of them, including Mabel, are thankfully still alive.
Early Life and Education
Mrs. Mabel Sarfo’s educational journey began in Kumasi, where she attended Weweso L/A Primary School near KNUST Police Station. She obtained her Middle School Leaving Certificate (Form Four) in 1980.
She then pursued her secondary education at Edinaman Secondary School and Assin Manso Secondary School. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, she could not complete her secondary education.
Undeterred by these challenges, Mabel demonstrated resilience and a commitment to furthering her education. She enrolled at the Opportunities Industrialization Centre (O.I.C.) in Kumasi for Secretarial Training, which she completed in 1984.
Her practical training took place at the Administration and Chemical Engineering Departments of the then University of Science and Technology (now Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, KNUST). Here, she honed her skills in secretarial work and office management.
Professional Career at KNUST
At KNUST, Mabel’s dedication and exceptional skills were evident, particularly during her attachment at the Chemical Engineering Department.
Despite being new to the role, she adeptly managed the preparation of examination results manually when the University’s computer system broke down.
Her professionalism, commitment, and loyalty impressed her supervisors, leading to her recommendation for a permanent position as a Secretary in the Chemical Engineering Department in 1984.
A New Chapter: Marriage and Relocation
In 1988, Mabel married Mr. Kwaku Sarfo and subsequently resigned from her position at KNUST, adopting the name Mrs. Mabel Sarfo. To build a life with her husband, Mabel relocated to Bibiani, marking the start of a new chapter.
She applied for secretarial positions at Bibiani Secondary Technical School (BISEC) and the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai District Assembly. Fortuitously, she was employed as the Secretary to the then District Secretary at the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai District Assembly, initiating a distinguished and enduring career.
A Distinguished Career at Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipal Assembly
Affectionately known as “Auntie May,” Mrs. Sarfo’s career spanned 36 years at the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipal Assembly (BABMA).
Throughout this period, she served eight District/Municipal Chief Executives (DCEs/MCEs) and ten District/Municipal Coordinating Directors without any blemish on her record. Her ability to adapt and work harmoniously with various leaders earned her immense respect and recognition.
Mrs. Mabel Sarfo’s responsibilities often went beyond traditional secretarial duties. In the Assembly’s early years, she and her female colleagues provided catering services for official guests and during Assembly meetings. This experience inspired her to open “Mayfair Restaurant,” the first restaurant in Bibiani.
Despite the challenges of working in a political environment with frequent changes in administration, Mrs. Mabel Sarfo maintained a reputation for humility, respect, and hard work. Her colleagues appreciated her cordial relationships with all.
Leadership and Legacy
From 2018 to 2022, Mrs. Mabel Sarfo served as the Chairperson of the Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG), for the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipal Assembly.
Following the creation of the Western North Region, she played a pivotal role in training newly employed secretaries in modern secretarial practices and office management at the Western North Regional Coordinating Council in Sefwi Wiawso.
In recognition of her outstanding service, the Omanhene of Anhwiaso Traditional Area, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyabi II, honoured Mrs. Mabel Sarfo with the title “Nkosoo Hemaa” in 2010.
Her commitment was further demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she ensured the continuity of office work, even as most staff stayed home during the lockdown.
Family and Community Involvement
Mrs. Mabel Sarfo and her husband, Mr. Kwaku Sarfo, are blessed with five wonderful children—three sons and two daughters—all of whom are present to celebrate her legacy today. Auntie May’s impact extends beyond her professional life, as she actively participates in funerals, weddings, and naming ceremonies within and outside the Municipality.
A Legacy of Excellence
In conclusion, Mrs. Mabel Sarfo has been an invaluable asset to the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipal Assembly. Her retirement marks the end of an era and leaves a significant void in the Secretariat Unit for both staff and non-staff within the Municipality.
Mrs. Mabel Sarfo’s legacy of dedication, humility, and professionalism will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of working with her.
