Honouring a legend: Tourism minister hails Agya Koo Nimo’s legacy

 In a heartfelt tribute to one of Ghana’s musical treasures, the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Cre­ative Arts, Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has lauded high-life maestro, Agya Koo Nimo, by highlighting his immense contribution to the country’s cultural heritage and nation­al development.

The 94-year-old virtuoso, born Daniel Amponsah, is famed for pioneering the ‘Palm Wine’ music genre—a soulful blend of indigenous storytelling, melodic guitar rhythms, and age-old wis­dom.

For over five decades, he has remained a cultural torchbearer, captivating au­diences with both music and message.

During an official visit to the New Adwase residence of the legendary musician in Kumasi, Madam Gomashie, flanked by her Deputy, Mr Yussif Issaka Jajah, and the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, pre­sented a hamper and also made a cash donation to the nonagenarian.

She conveyed the grat­itude of President John Dramani Mahama and the Ghanaian people for the maestro’s trailblasing role in shaping the nation’s music industry.

“Agya Koo Nimo didn’t just create music—he crafted identity, instilled pride, and charted a path for genera­tions to follow,” the Minister stated.

A former lecturer at KNUST and founder of the iconic ‘Adadam Agofomma’ troupe, Agya Koo Nimo has been a fixture at university events and traditional ceremonies alike.

Despite retirement, he remains the lifeblood of the cultural group, continuing to inspire with humility and grace.

Dr Amoakohene reaffirmed the government’s ongoing efforts to spotlight creative industry pioneers, revealing that over 25 actors have already been acknowledged in the Ashanti region alone. The visit to Agya Koo Nimo marked a new phase of this outreach to musicians.

Gracious and visibly moved, the music legend ex­pressed his appreciation to President Mahama and called for the establishment of a Creative Arts Museum to pre­serve and honour the works of Ghanaian musicians.

He also paid tribute to his 74-year-old wife, Mad­am Comfort Manu, and the members of his troupe for their enduring support.

The Minister’s delegation later toured the KNUST Department of Indigenous Arts and Technology, where she interacted with staff and students, and viewed an exhibition showcasing cre­ative pieces made from local materials.

With this act of recogni­tion, Ghana once again af­firms that those who shaped its cultural soul will not be forgotten.

 From Kingsley E. Hope