Ghanaians are mourning the loss of beloved highlife icon Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, whose sudden passing has shocked the nation and reignited conversations about how the country honours its artistic legends.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Maame Efua Houadjeto, has paid a solemn visit to the family of the late musician following his death last Saturday.
Leading a delegation to his East Legon residence, Houadjeto described Daddy Lumba as a “true ambassador of Ghana’s soul,” whose music touched generations and elevated Ghana on the global stage.
She revealed that Lumba was scheduled to be a headline act in this year’s “Highlife @100” celebration, and would now be posthumously honoured at the 2025 Ghana Tourism Awards in September.
Amid growing public concern that Ghanaian creatives are often celebrated only after their deaths, Houadjeto emphasized that the NDC government has been working behind the scenes to support artists — including providing housing, paying hospital bills, and offering financial assistance — though not always publicizing these efforts.
“We buy homes for them. We support them when they are sick. We pay their rent. But we don’t always publicize what we do,” she stated. “Not too long ago, President John Dramani Mahama directed us to go and honour Professor Kofi Agyekum (KONIMO), and my Minister was there in person.”
The visit, which was joined by senior officials from the GTA, was both a tribute and a signal of the state’s commitment to preserving cultural legacies.
“Daddy Lumba wasn’t just an entertainer. He was a custodian of memory and an ambassador of Ghana to the world.”
According to the CEO, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, led by sector Minister Hon. Ablah Dzifa Gomashie, is planning a meeting to discuss how best to memorialize the late artist.
“He was part of our major stars lined up for this year’s celebrations. We’re going to miss him,” she added.
She further assured Ghanaians that the Ministry would “do more than ever before” to honour Daddy Lumba’s legacy and ensure that future generations remember his impact.
As fans continue to mourn, tributes have poured in from across Ghana and beyond, celebrating not only his music but also the pride he brought to the nation.
Story by Osman Issah Abadoo
