With three months left on the 2023 calendar, a number of popular Ghanaians have already departed before it end casting sorrow on loved ones.
These individuals have left behind a lasting legacy that will serve as an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come. Their contributions to various fields, be it in arts, politics, science, or humanitarian endeavours, have enriched our nation and the world at large. Though they may have left this world, their influence and impact will continue to shape the future.
POLITICS
E.T MENSAH – Former Youth and Sports Minister
Enoch Teye, ET Mensah, as he was affectionately called, died in the early hours of Monday, October 2, while receiving treatment in a hospital in South Africa.
The longest-serving Sports Minister under the Sixth Parliament also served the people of Ningo-Prampram as their Member of Parliament between 1997 and 2017. ET Mensah was also the Minister of Employment and Social Welfare under the Atta Mills-led government.
Theresa Kufuor – Former First Lady
Theresa Kufour passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023.
Madam Theresa, who held the position of Ghana’s first lady from January 2001 to January 2009, established the Mother to Child Community Development Foundation during her tenure. This foundation aimed to ensure the proper development of children and to combat the transmission of diseases from mothers to their offspring.
Daniel Okyem Aboagye – Former Member of Parliament, Banatama
Daniel Okyem Aboagye’s demise occurred in the early hours of Saturday 23rd September, 2023 after a short illness.
Having competed a single term in Parliament, the businessman assumed the role of a spokesperson for the New Patriotic Party, specifically focusing on economic matters. He also served as a member of the Economic Committee while in parliament.
Kwadwo Boakye Gyan – Retired Major
Retired Major Kwadwo Boakye Gyan passed away on Wednesday, August 30, following a brief illness.
Major (rtd) Boakye Gyan gained prominence for his involvement in the 1979 uprising, which led to the overthrow of the Supreme Military Council (SMC II) regime. Subsequently, he joined the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and went on to serve as the party’s Parliamentary Candidate for the Jaman South Constituency in the 2012 elections.
SPORTS
Christian Atsu – Ghanaian football star
Christian Atsu lost his life in an earthquake in Turkey. Atsu, a key player for Ghana, accumulated over 60 international appearances having made his debut at the tender age of 20 in 2012 by scoring against Lesotho in a heavy win. The Ghanaian forward was a player for Turkish club Hatayspor before his demise.
His contributions extended to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and the 2015 African Cup of Nations, where he played a pivotal role, scoring two goals that propelled Ghana to the final, albeit losing in a penalty shootout to Ivory Coast. He earned the prestigious Player of the Tournament award at the 2015 African Cup. He was buried in March 2023 in Ada. He was 31.
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Akwaboah Senior – Veteran Ghanaian singer-songwriter
Kwadwo Akwaboah, known affectionately as Akwaboah Senior (Snr.), passed away on May 16, 2023.
He was a celebrated Ghanaian singer-songwriter and record producer. Akwaboah Senior gained recognition for his hit songs such as ”Awerɛkyekyerɛ” and ”Hini Me,” among others. He was the father of the Ghanaian musician Akwaboah Jr. HIs burial service took place on Saturday, September 30.
Cynthia Quarcoo – legal practitioner
Cynthia Quarcoo known for her presence in both the legal and entertainment realms, held the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Africa 1 Media. This agency, specializing in talent and public relations, collaborated with numerous Ghanaian musicians. Ms. Quarcoo legally represented rapper Sarkodie and also served as an adviser to Rocky Dawuni, Stonebwoy, Edem, Stephanie Benson, Reggie Rockstone, Bisa Kdei, and Samini.
She died on June 21, 2023, after a long illness.
As we reflect on the passing of these figures in 2023, we acknowledge the profound impact they had on various facets of our nation.