Joe Lartey: Iconic broadcaster dies aged 96

Veteran commentator, Joachim Awuley Lartey, popularly known as “Over to You” Joe Lartey has died, an official statement has said.

Joe Lartey who won the heart and admiration of many Ghanaians as an iconic broadcaster, with his mastery and authority in sports commentary died on Friday (26 April).

A statement issued by the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) on Saturday (27 April), said “The late broadcaster also known as “Over To You Joe Lartey” passed at age 96.”

“The Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) announces the death of renowned Legendary Ghanaian Journalist, Broadcaster & First President of the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) Mr Joachim Awuley Lartey aka ‘Joe Lartey’ on April 26, 2024,” it added.

Born on 6 June 1927 in Accra, Lartey was the first president of the Sports Writers’ Association of Ghana (SWAG).

Lartey’s journey in journalism began at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) in 1961 following a recommendation by a friend.

He started in the talks and features department at GBC before moving to the sports department, where he flourished as a football commentator.

Reporting by Fred Dzakpata in Accra