President John Dramani Mahama has promised to give the late Highlife legend Daddy Lumba a befitting state burial, acknowledging the veteran musician’s immense contribution to Ghana’s music and creative arts industry. This assurance comes amid widespread public calls for the iconic musician, whose real name was Charles Kwadwo Fosu, to be honoured with a state funeral.
Daddy Lumba, aged 60, passed away on Saturday, July 26, 2025, while undergoing treatment at the Bank Hospital in Accra. His death has left a void in the Ghanaian music scene, as he was regarded as one of the country’s most beloved musical figures with a career spanning over four decades. His timeless highlife classics have resonated with generations of music lovers, cementing his legacy within Ghana and beyond.
Following the musician’s demise, there was an outpouring of grief and numerous calls from fans, colleagues, and stakeholders in the music industry for the government to honour Daddy Lumba with a state burial. Responding to these calls, the Presidency has reportedly given positive feedback on the issue. Philip Kwabena Agyemang Appiah-Kubi, widely known as Roman Fada and the late musician’s lead manager, confirmed that discussions with the Presidency had been constructive, and he expressed hope that President Mahama would grant the request for a befitting burial. He stated in an interview with Channel One News on July 27 that they had received positive assurances from the President regarding the burial arrangements.
However, the family of Daddy Lumba has clarified that they have not yet formally requested a state burial. The family remains in the process of deliberations and has indicated that they plan to engage President Mahama at the appropriate time to discuss the funeral arrangements. A family spokesperson urged the public to disregard premature reports, emphasizing the importance of family consultations before making any official decisions on the burial type.
President Mahama himself had earlier expressed condolences and support for a befitting funeral for Daddy Lumba, highlighting his recognition of the deceased’s contributions. It was noted that the President was aware of the musician’s dire health condition even before his passing, having seen him at public events like the Senior Citizens Day event.
While final funeral plans are still being discussed, the government’s assurance, coupled with public demand, signals a strong likelihood that Daddy Lumba will receive state honours befitting his status as a musical legend in Ghana.
In summary, President John Mahama has assured that Daddy Lumba will be given a state burial to honour his extraordinary legacy. However, formal arrangements and requests from the family are still pending. The nation continues to mourn the loss of a true cultural icon who was the soundtrack to many lives in Ghana.
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