Prof. Ama Ata Aidoo
Renowned Ghanaian writer, Prof. Ama Ata Aidoo, has sadly passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, May 31, 2023.
The family of the esteemed literary icon announced her demise. Prof. Ama Ata Aidoo, known for her exceptional contributions to African literature, bid farewell after a brief illness.
Her passing leaves a void in the literary world, as she touched the hearts and minds of readers worldwide with her insightful and thought-provoking works.
The acclaimed writer, born on March 23, 1942, in Abeadzi Kyiakor, Ghana, achieved international recognition for her novel “Our Sister Killjoy” and her play “Anowa.”
Prof. Aidoo’s literary prowess extended beyond the boundaries of fiction, encompassing poetry, drama, and essays.
Her works tackled diverse themes, including gender roles, African identity, and post-colonialism, resonating with readers across generations.
Prof. Ama Ata Aidoo’s contributions to the literary landscape have been widely celebrated, earning her numerous accolades throughout her career.
She received the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best Book in Africa for her novel “Changes” in 1992.
Additionally, she was honored with the prestigious Ghanatta Award for Literature in 2018, recognizing her enduring impact on Ghanaian and African literature.
Beyond her writing, Prof. Aidoo was an educator and advocate for women’s empowerment.
She served as a lecturer at the University of Cape Coast in Ghana and was actively involved in promoting education and the arts in her country.
As news of her passing spreads, tributes pour in from fellow writers, scholars, and admirers of her work. Many recognize Prof. Ama Ata Aidoo as a trailblazer who fearlessly challenged societal noms and opened doors for African women writers. Her literary legacy will continue to inspire and shape the literary landscape for years to come.
The family of Prof. Aidoo requests privacy during this time of mourning, as they prepare to bid their final farewell to a beloved relative and celebrate the indelible mark she left on the world of literature.
Oh, my sweet, genuine and lovely Auntie Ama Ata!!! Just the thought of you evokes fondest memories of our beautiful moments together. You pampered Anita and me when we were kids, back in UCC, Cape Coast. Decades later, you still exuded such affectionate warmth when you and I reconnected in UCT, Cape Town. There was never a dull moment with you and I particularly miss our evenings together…enjoying your fascinating books and your excellent African food which you cooked for everyone around you…with such a huge labour of love… When our Kwame left, you stood by Mama-your sister, then and afterwards. You were exceptionally loyal, compassionate and supportive. Auntie, above all else, you were always humble, inspite of every magnificent accomplishment of yours. You had such a soft heart and will always be my role model. You positively touched the lives of many, including Mama, Kwame, Anita and me! Your abrupt departure has left me sorely distressed. But I won’t complain because the Good Lord knows best. I know you are resting peacefully with the Lord Jesus. Auntie, da yie, ai……I love and miss you all the time!!!!