From Galamsey Kingpin to Preacher: The Transformation of Kwame Ato
- Kwame Ato, once a feared galamsey kingpin in Axim, was beaten in a gang fight that claimed his younger brother’s life
- After surviving weeks in the hospital, he declared that he had given his life to Christ and turned away from illegal mining
- Kwame Ato now uses TikTok to preach, motivate youth, and share messages about repentance and transformation
Once feared as the notorious galamsey leader in the Western Region, Kwame Ato Asare is one of the most talked-about illegal mining kingpins in Ghana.
Source: TikTok
Kwame Ato had, over time, built a record as the leader of a galamsey gang in Axim and its environs.
His name appeared in many newspapers due to conflicts with the police and groups that competed with his illegal mining activities.
Early this year, he was said to have been brutally attacked in what locals described as a gang fight that allegedly claimed the life of his younger brother.
Eyewitnesses said he was left between life and death, forcing him into weeks of hospitalisation.
Reports said the once-feared 'galamsey kingpin' suffered severe injuries, with his face almost unrecognisable after the attack.
Kwame Ato’s journey from galamsey to faith
That near-death experience, many said, became the turning point of his life, and after being discharged, Kwame Ato declared had given his life to Christ.
The turn in events has seen the former galamsey kingpin become a preacher, using his story to inspire others to give up illegal and destructive lifestyles.
He preaches about redemption, peace, and the power of God's grace through short videos he posts regularly on TikTok, using trending gospel and motivational sounds.
Kwame Ato shares faith and inspiration through TikTok
In a recent TikTok video, Kwame Ato shared a powerful message with the sound:
"If God is with us, who can be against us? If they laugh at you today because you are down, leave them; God will elevate you unexpectedly."
He also posted a clip featuring Koo Nhyira’s gospel worship song, expressing a sorrowful yet reflective mood, showing how he draws strength and inspiration from faith and music during his transformation.
One of the TikTok videos shared by Kwame Ato is below:
Many Ghanaians have expressed disbelief at Kwame Ato's transformation and described it as one of the most unexpected redemption stories in recent times.
To his followers, he is no longer the galamsey kingpin, but a changed man, an example of how divine intervention can turn even the hardest of hearts around.
Source: TikTok
Galamsey man transforms into barber in Sweden
Previously, YEN.com.gh reported that a former galamsey man had left Ghana for Europe nine years ago in pursuit of brighter pastures said that whenever he thinks back on his choice, he was overcome with excitement.
Isaac Nana Agyeman claimed in a YouTube interview with Zionfelix that he was engaged in illicit mining when he had the idea to leave for a place with better chances, and urged his compatriots to follow his lead.
Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
