Ten months into 2025, Ghana has mourned the loss of several distinguished personalities who, sadly, could not live to see the realisation of the dreams and aspirations they had set for themselves.
These individuals include politicians, chiefs, musicians, diplomats and former statesmen whose contributions left indelible marks on the nation’s history.
The latest to join the list is the former First Lady of Ghana, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings.
Below is a list of ten notable Ghanaians who have passed away in 2025
Sam Pee Yalley (April 6, 2025)
Renowned Ghanaian diplomat and former High Commissioner to India, Sam Pee Yalley, passed away on Sunday, April 6, 2025.
His death was announced by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) ‘s Deputy National Communications Officer, Malik Basintale, in a Facebook post.
Sam Pee Yalley was a seasoned lawyer and a stalwart of the NDC.
He served as Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Pensions Regulatory Authority and was appointed Ghana’s Ambassador to India by President John Dramani Mahama in 2014.
Daasebre Osei Bonsu II (April 28, 2025)
The Paramount Chief of Asante Mampong, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, died in April 2025 at the age of 86.
The Mampong Traditional Council and the Bretuo Dynasty officially informed the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, of his death at the Manhyia Palace on Monday, April 28, 2025.
A lawyer and economist by profession, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II previously served as Registrar of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and was the Vice President of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs.
He was the esteemed occupant of the Silver Stool, a position of immense traditional significance in the Asante Kingdom.
Dada KD (May 16, 2025)
Ghanaian highlife legend Dada KD passed away on May 16, 2025.
Renowned for his soulful love songs, Dada KD earned multiple accolades, including the Best Male Vocal Artist award at the 2004 Ghana Music Awards UK.
His legacy as a gifted vocalist and composer continues to inspire generations of musicians.
Ernest Yaw Kumi (July 7, 2025)
The Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, died on July 7, 2025, at the age of 40.
Kumi made headlines earlier in the year when he was cited for contempt by the Koforidua High Court on February 19, 2025, for defying an interim injunction that barred him from being sworn in as a Member of Parliament on the Minority side of the House.
His death came as a shock to many within political circles.
Daddy Lumba (July 26, 2025)
Highlife maestro Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, was confirmed dead on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
In a statement released through his official Facebook page and confirmed by Daddy Lumba FM, his media platform, the Fosu family announced the passing of Ghana’s beloved musical icon after a short illness.
Daddy Lumba was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon whose lyrics and music profoundly reflected themes of love, struggle, and resilience.
Dr Edward Omane Boamah (August 6, 2025)
The former Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, tragically died on August 6, 2025.
His death was confirmed by Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, in a state broadcast.
The minister was among nine victims who lost their lives in a helicopter crash that occurred at Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region while en route to a programme in Obuasi.
Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed (August 6, 2025)
The former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, also lost his life in the same helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah confirmed that he was among the nine victims of the tragic incident at Adansi Akrofuom.
Nana Konadu Yiadom III (August 11, 2025)
The Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, passed away on August 11, 2025, at the age of 98, after reigning for eight years.
Her death was confirmed to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, by the Oyoko family at an emergency Asanteman Traditional Council meeting.
Born Nana Ama Konadu, she was the 14th Asantehemaa and the biological sister of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
She was widely respected for her wisdom, loyalty and devotion to Asanteman traditions.
Apostle Dr Kwadwo Safo (September 11, 2025)
Celebrated preacher, technologist, philanthropist, agriculturalist, and industrialist, Apostle Dr Kwadwo Safo, popularly known as Kantanka, the African Star, passed away on Thursday, September 11, 2025.
In a statement signed by his daughter, Sarah Adwoa Safo (former MP for Dome Kwabenya), the family described him as a “gallant son” whose life was defined by innovation and excellence.
A founder of Kantanka Automobile and the Kristo Asafo Mission Church, Apostle Safo’s contributions to local manufacturing and technological advancement made him a national treasure.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings (October 23, 2025)
The Former First Lady of Ghana, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, passed away on October 23, 2025, at the Ridge Hospital in Accra, aged 76.
Reports indicate that she had been unwell for some time and was under close medical supervision before her passing.
She was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings and a towering figure in Ghanaian politics. As the leader of the 31st December Women’s Movement, she championed women’s rights, youth empowerment, and community development for decades.
Her death marks the end of an era for one of Ghana’s most influential women.
AM/SEA
Scenes from Accra Ridge Hospital after news of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings’ death
Kimathi Rawlings and other prominent figures depart residence after brief meeting
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