By Our Reporter
ACCRA (CONVERSEER) – Mrs Joana Quaye, formerly married to Ghanaian business mogul Mr Richard Nii Armah Quaye, filed for divorce and requested, among other reliefs, a financial settlement of GHC 50 million (approximately 4.5 million dollars).
The High Court considered the petition and granted certain reliefs, including property and child-related arrangements.
However, the court addressed the financial claim separately.
His Lordship Justice Justin Kofi Dorgu, sitting as an Additional High Court Judge, noted that financial awards in divorce cases were traditionally based on the older concept of alimony, intended to help financially dependent spouses establish independence.
The judge observed that times have changed and many women are now gainfully employed, meaning substantial awards require compelling justification.
In his judgment, Justice Dorgu stated that the GHC 50 million claim lacked evidentiary support.
He emphasised that marriage should not be treated as an investment expecting extraordinary returns over 10 to 20 years.
The court noted that Mrs Quaye had already received a one‑third share of the matrimonial home.
The respondent was ordered to meet the children’s educational and health needs, and the petitioner’s mobility requirements were addressed.
Justice Dorgu also observed that Mrs Quaye is employed in the same line of business as her former husband, with experience that could enhance her future earning capacity.
