The remains of the former Chairman of the National Media Commission (NMC), Nana Kwasi Gyan-Apenteng, arrived in Accra last Wednesday, August 27, at the VIP Lounge of the Kotoka International Airport.
The veteran journalist, aged 74, passed away in May this year in London, where he had gone to seek medical treatment.
Leading members of the family and close friends, including the Asafohene of Tutu Akuapem, Dr. Afua Asabea Asare; the Saanahene of Eti Amanfrom, New Tafo Akyem, Okatakyie Nana Anim I; and the Atiamo Ababio Konti of Akyem Eti, Nana Baffour Twumasi, inspected the documents covering the hermetically sealed casket to verify the details.
Also present was a delegation from the NMC, led by its Executive Secretary, George Sarpong.
Ceremony and Burial
The Saanahene and his linguist performed a traditional libation ceremony at the airport before the District Minister of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Dzorwulu, Rev. Kingsley Asare Addo, prayed for the family.
The body was later conveyed to the morgue after the official ceremony to welcome the columnist home.
His burial is scheduled for October 4, followed by a Thanksgiving service on October 5 at Eti Amanfrom, New Akyem Tafo.
Mr. Sarpong paid glowing tribute to Nana Gyan-Apenteng for his immense contribution to media development in Ghana, noting that throughout his career, he embodied integrity, wisdom, and a deep respect for democratic values.
“His tenure as Chairman of the Commission was marked by vision, inclusiveness, and an unwavering commitment to strengthening the media as a pillar of Ghana’s democracy.
“Beyond his official duties, Nana Gyan-Apenteng was a mentor and inspiration to generations of journalists, writers, and cultural workers,” Mr. Sarpong said.
“The NMC mourns his passing but celebrates a life of meaning and impact. His legacy will endure in the institutions he served and in the ideals he championed,” he added.
Profile
Nana Gyan-Apenteng served as Chairman of the eighth NMC from November 2015 to November 2018, succeeding Ambassador Kabral Blay-Amihere.
He was a consultant in Communication, Media, and Culture, and also served as President of the Ghana Association of Writers (GAW).
With over 45 years of experience, he worked as a reporter, editor, writer, teacher, and trainer.
Although he retired as Editor of The Mirror, he continued contributing as a columnist.
In the 1980s and early 1990s, while living in London, he served as Deputy Editor of the erstwhile West Africa magazine.
On returning to Ghana, he worked with the Third World Network as head of communications and editor of its monthly magazine, Africa Agenda.
He also served as a media trainer and communication consultant for several organisations, including MTN Ghana, UN agencies, the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), and STAR Ghana.
Source: GraphicOnline
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