The passing of Ghanaian highlife icon, Daddy Lumba, has prompted an outpouring of grief and support, notably from former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. A delegation representing the late musician’s family, including Abusuapanin Kofi Owusu of the Ekuona Royal Family of Nsuta and Madam Afia Akoto, former Deputy CEO of MASLOC, formally informed Dr. Bawumia of the singer’s demise and extended an invitation to the one-week observance. This meeting, held at Dr. Bawumia’s office on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, solidified the connection between the former Vice President and the grieving family, paving the way for a significant gesture of support. The one-week memorial, a traditional Ghanaian funerary rite, is set to take place on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the expansive Legon Sports Stadium, located on the University of Ghana campus.
Dr. Bawumia’s contribution to the arrangements for the legendary musician’s farewell extends beyond mere attendance. Honoring a commitment he made during a visit to Daddy Lumba’s East Legon residence just a month prior, in July 2025, Dr. Bawumia donated a substantial sum of GH₵100,000 to assist the family with the costs associated with the memorial and subsequent funeral. This generous donation underscores the deep respect Dr. Bawumia held for the late artist and highlights his commitment to supporting Ghanaian cultural figures. The funds were conveyed to the bereaved family through the intermediary of Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the former Majority Leader of Parliament, symbolizing the collaborative effort to honor Daddy Lumba’s legacy.
Beyond the immediate financial contribution for the one-week observance, Dr. Bawumia has pledged further assistance to the family for the main funeral ceremony. While the date and specific details of the funeral remain to be determined, it is understood that the final farewell will be held in the Ashanti Region, Daddy Lumba’s ancestral homeland. This ongoing commitment to support the family throughout the mourning period demonstrates a profound appreciation not only for the artist’s contributions to Ghanaian music but also for the cultural significance of honoring his passing with appropriate rites and ceremonies.
The scale of the planned events, culminating in the funeral in the Ashanti Region, reflects the widespread impact Daddy Lumba had on Ghanaian society. His music transcended generations, becoming a soundtrack to national life and earning him the status of a cultural icon. The choice of the Legon Sports Stadium for the one-week observance speaks volumes about the expected attendance, as this venue is capable of accommodating large gatherings, a testament to the artist’s immense popularity. The stadium setting provides a suitable space for fans, dignitaries, and fellow musicians to come together to celebrate Daddy Lumba’s life and mourn his loss.
The outpouring of support, exemplified by Dr. Bawumia’s contributions, underscores the collective sense of loss felt across the nation. Daddy Lumba’s music was more than just entertainment; it was a unifying force, weaving its way into the fabric of Ghanaian culture. His songs chronicled life’s joys and sorrows, resonating with people from all walks of life. The national mourning for this beloved artist reflects his profound impact on the Ghanaian cultural landscape, and the support extended by prominent figures like Dr. Bawumia serves as a testament to the singer’s enduring legacy.
The meticulous planning for the one-week observance and the subsequent funeral signifies the importance of honoring departed figures in Ghanaian culture. These ceremonies offer a space for communal grieving, remembrance, and celebration of a life well-lived. The involvement of prominent figures like Dr. Bawumia and Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu underscores the significance of these events and signifies a national recognition of Daddy Lumba’s contributions to Ghanaian music and society. The upcoming ceremonies serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of music and its ability to connect generations, transcend cultural divides, and leave an indelible mark on a nation’s soul.
