Sarkodie raises concern over safety of Ghanaians abroad

Ghanaian rap star Sarkodie has raised concerns about the safety of Ghanaians living abroad following the death of 15-year-old Javits Frimpong, who was shot while on his way to school in the United States.

Reacting to the incident in a Facebook post, the rapper said the circumstances surrounding Javits’ death were particularly disturbing and made it difficult for Ghanaians living overseas to feel safe.

He said although Ghana had its own challenges, he took pride in the values with which children were raised, even in rough and tough neighbourhoods.

According to him, murder was treated as a serious matter in Ghana, with such incidents attracting widespread media attention and leaving the public shocked and saddened.

He, however, expressed concern that killings appeared to have become almost regular occurrences in some parts of the Western world.

“I honestly don’t know what kind of upbringing shapes children to become so evil,” he said, urging some Black parents abroad to do better in raising their children and instilling the right values in them.

Describing Javits’ death as unfortunate, Sarkodie extended his condolences to the bereaved family, particularly the teenager’s parents.

“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Sending love, prayers and strength to the family, especially his mum and dad,” he wrote.

Javits reportedly moved from Ghana to the United States with his family about a year ago. He was shot on Thursday, October 29, 2026, while on his way to school in the Bronx, New York.

His father, Thomas Frimpong, alleged that his son had been bullied by two boys at school. He said the school principal had previously informed him about the situation and suspended the two boys.

At the time of the reports, three teenage suspects, aged between 16 and 18, were being sought by authorities in connection with the shooting.

Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, also expressed condolences to the family and said Ghanaian officials were engaging with them and local authorities over the incident.