President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo paid a glowing tribute to the late Ama Ata Aidoo at her funeral at the Forecourt of the State House on Thursday.
In an emotional tribute, the president acknowledged the late poet’s unparalleled talent and described her as a literary icon whose words resonated with readers around the globe.
“The community of writers has lost one of its greatest members, one who will be extremely difficult to replace. She was my contemporary in the 1960s at Ghana’s premiere University of Ghana. Even though she was four years older than me, she was someone with whom I enjoyed friendly and productive relations.
“Through her work, she made a tremendous contribution to the development of the continent. Her plays and essays captured the imagination and spoke directly and unambiguously. Her books and plays contained compelling experiences that will never be forgotten by anyone who had the privilege to read and watch them,” he said.
According to the president, the late Ama Ata Aidoo was a tireless advocate who believed that women are the first-line educators of children, the community, and the nation.
“She fought against a multitude of hurdles, cultural, economic, religious, and social that faced women and urged leaders across the world to help improve the welfare of women and girls. Even though, she never took up a gun in Africa’s struggle for independence her pen did the fighting in helping to ensure the liberation of Africa,” he added.
President Akufo-Addo said Ghanaians and the world will miss Ama Ata Aidoo not only for her literary brilliance but also for her indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to advancing African literature and culture.
Professor Ama Ata Aidoo, a highly respected writer, passed away on May 31, 2023, at the age of 83 after a brief illness.
The funeral ceremonies, which commenced on July 13, are scheduled to conclude on July 16, 2023.
The burial service will take place on Saturday, July 15, at 8:00 am at the Good Shepherd Methodist Church in Abeadze Kyeakor, Central Region.
The interment will be held at Abora Nkwanta, followed by a thanksgiving service on Sunday, July 16.