Gospel Community Marks One-Week Observance for Yaw Sarpong Today
Family, friends and members of the gospel music fraternity will gather in Kumasi today, February 19, 2026, for a one-week observance in honour of renowned gospel musician Yaw Sarpong. The ceremony will be held at Asuofua Park as loved ones reflect on his life, ministry and lasting impact on Ghanaian gospel music.
Yaw Sarpong passed away on January 20, 2026, at the age of 66 after a prolonged illness. His death, confirmed by his manager Nana Poku Ashis, sparked tributes from musicians, clergy and admirers across the country. Many have described him as a pioneer whose work helped shape the direction of contemporary Akan gospel music.
The observance comes at a difficult time for the Asomafo fraternity, following the recent death of Maame Tiwaa, a long-serving member of the group. The back-to-back losses have deepened the sense of mourning within the gospel community.
Today’s programme is expected to attract family members, fellow musicians, church leaders and fans from across the country. Activities will include worship sessions, musical tributes and reflections on his influence as a songwriter, mentor and spiritual leader.
Yaw Sarpong founded the Asomafo Band in 1986 while in Liberia before relocating to Ghana, where the group developed into one of the country’s most respected gospel ensembles. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he released over 25 albums and recorded more than 100 songs, including popular worship favourites such as Wo Haw Ne Sɛn, Oko Yi, Tie Obiaa and Aduro Yesu. His music continues to be performed in churches and played on gospel radio stations nationwide.
In 2025, he was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards in recognition of his enduring contribution to the gospel genre. Today’s ceremony will serve as both a celebration of his ministry and a moment of collective remembrance.
