Tourism, Culture, Creative Arts Ministry mourns Yaw Sarpong, Tiwaa
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has described as a great loss the death of two influential personalities in the gospel music industry, musician and choral icon Yaw Sarpong and his longtime soloist, Mary Tiwaa.
It described the passing of these legends as sorrowful, adding that their musical journey significantly shaped gospel music and choral development in Ghana.
The two passed away a month apart: Maame Tiwaa, passing away last December 7, and the legendary musician also kicked the bucket last Tuesday.
Yaw Sarpong
Yaw Sarpong is said to have died at the Emena Hospital in Kumasi, where he was receiving medical treatment.
He was a pioneer of Ghanaian gospel music, leading the Asomafo Gospel Band to produce timeless classics.
His decades-long career earned him immense respect in the Christian community and music industry, inspiring many young gospel artistes who cite him as a major influence.
He was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards for his contributions to gospel music.
Tiwaa
Maame Tiwaa, born Mary Tiwaa, widely celebrated for her powerful vocals with the Yaw Sarpong & Asomafo band, was a central figure in Ghana’s contemporary gospel music scene for more than three decades, earning admiration for her vocal delivery and the spiritual depth of her performances.
She was best known for her contributions to some of Asomafo’s most iconic songs, including Wo Haw Ne Sen?, Awurade Ka Me Ho, Yen Fa Oye Nkoaa, and Mensuro, which became staples in many Christian homes and worship spaces across the country.
Her voice became synonymous with the unique sound of the Yaw Sarpong & Asomafo group, helping cement their place as one of Ghana’s most influential gospel collectives and also impressed audiences with her solo renditions and live ministrations, often described as soul-lifting and deeply anointed.
In a statement to express its condolences over the loss, the ministry also eulogised Yaw Sarpong for his dedication, mentorship, and artistic excellence in nurturing generations of musicians and elevating Ghana’s cultural and spiritual landscape as the leader of the Asomafo group.
“Together, their contributions remain unparalleled, and their collective legacy continues to inspire the Creative Arts Sector and the nation,” the statement said.
