In an official statement, SWAG announced, “The Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) announces with heavy heart the passing of Mr Joachim Awuley Lartey, also known as Joe Lartey, on April 26, 2024.”

“Lartey, who served as the inaugural President of SWAG, departed at the age of 96. Further details regarding his demise and funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.”

Born on June 6, 1927, in Accra, Joe Lartey was an alumnus of Accra Academy.

He rose to prominence as a legendary broadcaster, earning the affectionate title “Over to You.”

Lartey’s distinguished career in journalism commenced in 1961 at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) as a football commentator.

He later joined Radio Nigeria, where he remained until 1990, before returning to GBC, where he hosted programs like Sports Digest on GTV.

In June 2022, Lartey was honoured with the prestigious “A Life in Sport” award by the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) at the AIPS Sport Media Awards ceremony in Doha, Qatar.

Joe Lartey’s profound influence on Ghanaian football commentators is evident, with many acknowledging his pivotal role in shaping their careers. His legacy in sports journalism is destined to endure for generations to come.