Ghanaian Literary Icon Ama Ata Aidoo to Receive State-Assisted Burial in July
The literary world is in mourning following the passing of renowned African author Ama Ata Aidoo on May 31, 2023, at the age of 81. Recognizing her profound impact on literature and her contributions to the African literary landscape, the government of Ghana has announced a state-assisted burial for the esteemed writer.
From Thursday, July 13 to Sunday, July 16, 2023, the family of Ama Ata Aidoo will bid farewell to the late legendary Ghanaian author. The announcement was made during a visit to the Jubilee House, where Aidoo’s family formally informed President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of her passing and shared the details of her burial arrangements, according to a report by 3news.com.
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During the meeting, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo expressed his satisfaction with the funeral arrangements, stating, “I am happy that the arrangements you have made for her funeral will allow me to attend the laying-in-state.” He further emphasized the significance of Aidoo’s contributions, saying, “Even before you came here, I had made the decision that she should be given a state-assisted burial. She deserves it, and it will give myself and the people of Ghana the opportunity to pay our respects to this literary giant.”
Ama Ata Aidoo, born on March 23, 1942, in Abeadzi Kyiakor, in the central region of Ghana, was a trailblazer in African literature. Her works, including “Our Sister Killjoy,” “Changes: A Love Story,” and “Anowa,” explored themes of feminism, colonialism, and identity. Aidoo’s writing was celebrated for its lyrical prose, insightful social commentary, and empowering representation of African women.
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Throughout her career, Aidoo received numerous accolades, including the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize, the Nelson Mandela Award for Creative Writing, and the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best Book in Africa. Her literary contributions have inspired generations of writers and readers, both within Africa and beyond.
As preparations are underway for the state-assisted burial, Ghana and the literary community worldwide eagerly await the opportunity to pay their final respects to Ama Ata Aidoo. Her remarkable legacy will continue to shape African literature and serve as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.
