On Friday, August 30, 2025, the Ghanaian entertainment industry and the nation at large were thrown into a solemn yet celebratory mood as the one-week observance of Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, was held. The legendary highlife musician, whose voice, creativity, and artistry shaped Ghanaian music for over three decades, had passed away a week earlier, leaving behind a vacuum in the hearts of music lovers.
The one-week event was not just a gathering of mourners; it was a grand cultural moment that reflected the towering legacy Daddy Lumba had built. Family members, friends, politicians, musicians, industry players, and ordinary Ghanaians trooped to the venue in their numbers, clad in black and red, to honor the life and works of one of Ghana’s greatest music icons.
Beyond the tears and tributes, what stood out significantly were the donations made by notable individuals and institutions to support the funeral arrangements. The list of donors underscored the level of respect Daddy Lumba commanded across political, social, and institutional lines.
Notable Donations
According to reports from Graphic Online, several high-profile personalities contributed immensely to the success of the event. The donations included both cedi and euro contributions, reflecting both local and international support for the late musician’s memory.
- Kennedy Agyapong – GH¢10,000
The outspoken businessman and politician, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, was among the first to donate. Known for his bluntness and generosity, his GH¢10,000 contribution symbolized his recognition of Lumba’s impact not only as a musician but also as a cultural asset. Kennedy Agyapong has often spoken about the role of musicians in shaping society, and his gesture was warmly acknowledged by the family. - Matthew Opoku Prempeh – GH¢5,000
The Minister of Energy, affectionately called “Napo,” contributed GH¢5,000. Though modest compared to others, his donation reflected his personal admiration for Lumba. Being a Kumasi native himself, Napo has previously mentioned how Daddy Lumba’s music dominated the airwaves during his youthful days in the Ashanti Region. His donation was accompanied by a message that Lumba’s music would continue to inspire generations. - Mahamudu Bawumia – GH¢50,000
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia made one of the most significant contributions, offering GH¢50,000. The gesture reflected the state’s acknowledgment of Daddy Lumba’s legacy. Bawumia’s donation was also symbolic, given that he has consistently supported the creative arts industry and often attends cultural events to show solidarity. His presence at the observance reassured the music fraternity that government valued their contributions. - Ghana Police Service – €30,000
Perhaps the most striking donation came from the Ghana Police Service, which contributed €30,000 (approximately GH¢500,000 at current exchange rates). Their involvement was both surprising and impressive, highlighting Daddy Lumba’s wide reach. Over the years, his music had been embraced by security personnel across the country, often played during social gatherings and ceremonies. The donation cemented the idea that Daddy Lumba was not just a musician but a unifying national figure. - Alan Kyerematen – GH¢5,000
The leader of the Movement for Change and former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kyerematen, also showed his support with a donation of GH¢5,000. Alan Cash, as he is popularly known, has always had an affinity for Ghanaian culture and heritage. His contribution, though smaller in monetary value compared to others, carried symbolic weight because it reflected his respect for the arts and his connection to ordinary Ghanaians who grew up with Lumba’s timeless songs. - Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo – GH¢100,000
The most substantial donation of the day came from Former President Akufo-Addo, who gave GH¢100,000. The gesture was deeply moving for many present, as Akufo-Addo is known to have had a personal admiration for the arts and for Daddy Lumba’s unique contribution to Ghana’s cultural identity. His donation was described by many as a befitting honor to a man who had dedicated his entire life to entertaining and inspiring the nation.
The Mood at the Ceremony
The one-week observance was filled with a blend of emotions. While there was sorrow in losing such a great musical gem, there was also an air of celebration of a life well lived. Several renowned musicians, including Kojo Antwi, Amakye Dede, Nana Acheampong, Ofori Amponsah, and Obrafour, were present to pay their respects. The event became a mini-concert, as many of Lumba’s timeless hits were performed live, evoking memories and stirring emotions among fans.
Fans, young and old, sang along to classics like Yentie Obiaa, Aben Wo Ha, and Theresa, proving that Daddy Lumba’s music had transcended generations. Many attendees were spotted shedding tears when video clips of his early performances were played on giant screens.
Tributes from Family and Friends
Family members of Daddy Lumba expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support. His eldest son delivered an emotional tribute, highlighting his father’s humility, discipline, and unwavering dedication to music. According to him, despite his fame, Daddy Lumba always prioritized family and instilled in them values of perseverance and respect.
Close friends described him as a perfectionist who never compromised on the quality of his music. Legendary highlife partner, Nana Acheampong, recalled their time as the Lumba Brothers in Germany and how they struggled before eventually breaking through in Ghana. His words brought tears to many, as he emphasized that Daddy Lumba’s passion was unmatched.
Symbolism of the Donations
The donations received were not just financial support; they carried deep symbolic meanings. They reflected the respect, recognition, and gratitude that society owed to Daddy Lumba. While politicians and state institutions acknowledged his contribution to Ghana’s cultural identity, fans and family saw it as an affirmation that his music would never be forgotten.
- Kennedy Agyapong’s donation represented the businessman’s recognition of culture as an essential national treasure.
- Dr. Bawumia’s GH¢50,000 embodied the state’s official acknowledgment of Daddy Lumba’s role.
- The Ghana Police Service’s €30,000 showed how far-reaching Lumba’s influence had spread—even into structured institutions.
- Former President Akufo-Addo’s GH¢100,000 stood as the ultimate national honor for a musician whose songs often became the soundtrack of political rallies, weddings, and national occasions.
Looking Ahead
As preparations continue for Daddy Lumba’s final funeral rites, the one-week observance has set the tone for what is expected to be a grand send-off. Tributes have continued to pour in from abroad, with Ghanaian communities in Europe, North America, and Asia planning memorial services in his honor.
Music experts predict that his passing will spark renewed interest in highlife music, with a new generation of musicians likely to revisit his style and reimagine it for contemporary audiences. Several industry players have also suggested that government consider instituting a national award in his name to preserve his legacy.
