Remembering Ghana’s Icons Who Passed in 2025: A Year of Profound Loss

December 31, 2025

14

The year 2025 has been marked by the loss of many distinguished Ghanaians whose contributions spanned politics, music, traditional leadership, sports, and public service. These prominent figures left indelible legacies across public service, entertainment, innovation, and culture.

Below is a tribute to these notable figures arranged by the dates of their passing:

Francis Frimpong (Nana Pooley) – February 2, 2025
A devoted Asante Kotoko supporter, Frimpong’s tragic death during a football match sparked national conversations on hooliganism and football safety.
Abdullai Tahiru (Taidu Last Killer) – February 9, 2025
Popular actor famous for his vigilante roles in Ghanaian comedy, Tahiru was a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Mawuli Semevo – February 20, 2025
An actor and theatre contributor, Semevo was known for his roles in Ghanaian stage and television productions, leaving a notable mark on the arts.
Alhaji Amadu Sulley – March 1, 2025
Former Deputy Chairperson of Ghana’s Electoral Commission, Sulley was a respected public servant with decades of experience in administration and governance.
Wilberforce Mfum – May 11, 2025
Nicknamed “The Bulldozer,” Mfum was a legendary footballer who scored Ghana’s first-ever Africa Cup of Nations goal and helped the country win its maiden title in 1963. His football career extended internationally, and he is remembered as a cornerstone of Ghanaian football history.
Dada K.D. – May 16, 2025
A highlife musician known for his soulful vocals and romantic songs, Dada K.D. earned several awards and remains an inspiration to many in Ghana’s music industry.
Joseph Kobina Ade Coker – May 31, 2025
A political leader and sports administrator, Ade Coker was the NDC Greater Accra Regional Chairman and served as Vice Chairman of the Ghana Football Association. His leadership and mentoring shaped both politics and sports in Ghana.
Jonathan Abbey Pobee – June 5, 2025
Founder and long-time president of Neoplan Stars FC, Pobee was an advocate for transparency and reforms in Ghana football. His dedication to grassroots development left a lasting legacy.
Ernest Yaw Kumi – July 7, 2025
Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi was known for his active political role until his passing at age 40. His commitment to his constituency and political service was noted despite controversies earlier in the year.
Charles Kojo Fosu (Daddy Lumba) – July 26, 2025
One of Ghana’s most celebrated highlife musicians, Daddy Lumba’s soulful hits like Aben Wo Ha and Theresa influenced multiple generations. His music remains an enduring part of Ghana’s cultural heritage, and his passing marked the loss of a true legend.
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – August 6, 2025
A medical doctor and seasoned politician, Dr. Boamah served as Ghana’s Minister of Defence and held multiple important roles under the National Democratic Congress. His tragic death in a helicopter crash en route to Obuasi was a significant loss to the nation.
Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed – August 6, 2025
Minister for Environment and respected parliamentarian for Tamale Central, Muhammed was known for his dedication to governance and youth empowerment. He died alongside other dignitaries in the helicopter crash
Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna – August 6, 2025
At the time of his death, Limuna was Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator. A former Northern and Upper East Regional Minister, his political career spanned decades, marked by dedicated public service.
Dr. Samuel Sarpong – August 6, 2025
Vice-Chairman of the National Democratic Congress and former Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Sarpong was a respected educationist and politician who contributed significantly to regional and national development.
Peter Bafemi Anala – August 6, 2025
A Ghana Air Force pilot with numerous years of military service, Squadron Leader Anala was among those who lost their lives in the helicopter crash.
Manaen Twum Ampadu – August 6, 2025
A young and promising Ghana Air Force pilot, Flying Officer Ampadu was recognized for his dedication and service before his untimely passing.
Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah – August 6, 2025
Flight technician in the Ghana Air Force, Sgt. Mensah had served diligently since 2011 and was a valued member of the military team.
Samuel Aboagye – August 6, 2025
Deputy Director-General of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and former parliamentary candidate, Aboagye was dedicated to public service and community safety.
Nana Konadu Boakye Yiadom III – August 11, 2025
The 14th Asantehemaa (Queen Mother) and biological sister of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Nana Konadu Yiadom III reigned for eight years and was a revered traditional leader. Her death was deeply mourned in the Ashanti Region and beyond.
Ernest Akushey (Bahubali) – September 23, 2025
A professional boxer renowned for his fierce and entertaining style, Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey was a beloved figure in the James Town and Chorkor boxing communities. His career record of six knockouts reflected his warrior-like approach. His untimely death after a bout led to a nationwide suspension of professional boxing for safety reviews.
Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka – September 11, 2025
A visionary preacher, industrialist, and innovator, Apostle Safo Kantanka founded the Kantanka Automobile company and Kristo Asafo Mission Church. His dedication to local manufacturing and technological advancement earned him national acclaim as a pioneer and philanthropist.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings – October 23, 2025
Former First Lady of Ghana and a formidable political figure, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings championed women’s rights, youth empowerment, and community development. As leader of the 31st December Women’s Movement, she was a driving force for social change and a respected advocate across the country.
William Addo (Akpatse) – November 22, 2025A veteran actor and film producer, William Addo was a beloved figure in Ghana’s theatre and television landscape. Known for his comic timing and wit, he gained popularity through his memorable roles on GTV’s Thursday Theatre and various Ghanaian films. His contributions greatly enriched Ghana’s performing arts scene.