The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has appealed to the public and media to respect the privacy of the family of the late highlife legend, Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, as the nation grieves his passing.
During a condolence visit to the family’s residence, the Minister extended sympathies to the widow and relatives of the iconic musician, urging Ghanaians to show compassion and restraint in this period of mourning. “This is a difficult time for the family, and we must all show compassion by respecting their privacy,” Gomashie said. “His passing is a huge loss to the creative community and to the nation.”
Gomashie paid tribute to Daddy Lumba’s exceptional talent and his enduring impact on Ghana’s highlife music tradition, stating that his influence on generations of musicians remains unmatched.
She described the late artist as a towering figure in Ghana’s cultural history, whose musical contributions defined an era and continue to resonate across generations.
She also revealed that the Ministry had been planning a major highlife music festival to celebrate the genre, with Daddy Lumba expected to play a central role in the event. “Losing him at such a time is heartbreaking,” she noted. “We were planning something big that he would have been proud of and actively involved in.”
The upcoming festival was part of broader efforts by the Ministry to have both highlife music and Kete officially recognised by UNESCO as elements of Ghana’s intangible cultural heritage.
As preparations begin for the funeral of the late artist, the Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving his legacy and supporting the bereaved family.
Gomashie said the Ministry and the entire creative arts community will continue to honour the memory of Charles Kojo Fosu, whose voice and artistry touched countless lives.
The late musician’s death prompted a wave of national mourning. Tributes have poured in from fans, fellow musicians, and political leaders, all acknowledging Daddy Lumba’s iconic role in Ghanaian music.
Daddy Lumba’s Family Officially Informs Asantehene of His Death
The Ekuona Royal Family of Nsuta has officially informed the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, of the passing of Ghanaian music icon Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba.
A delegation led by the Saamanhene paid a solemn visit to the Manhyia Palace to perform the traditional rites of notification to the revered monarch.
The visit marks a significant cultural tradition in Asanteman, where the Asantehene, as the custodian of the land and its people, must be formally informed of the death of any royal or prominent native.
With the customary announcement now complete, all traditional protocols have been activated, paving the way for the next phase of funeral preparations.
As part of the commemorative activities, a Candlelight Vigil will be held this Saturday at the Heroes Park of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, in honour of the late music legend.
The event is expected to attract thousands of fans, fellow musicians, dignitaries, and well-wishers who wish to pay their respects to the man whose music influenced generations.
Further details regarding the final funeral rites are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Social media users reacted to the video and sympathised with the grieving family of Daddy Lumba.
“A step in the right direction. Biribiara wor ne Wura.”
Richie Baffour
“Once our Great King has been informed, we can do our own vigil in Kumasi.”
Eric Agyemang
“The serious Abuapanin ever! Asantes don’t joke with customs and traditions.”
Jonson Penyah
“Eiiiii, my people and funerals never disappoint! See how they have started the funeral, sei kutuuuuuu, sei bam!”
Nana Kwame
“Very great that the main king spoke piaww.”
West Hope
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