The final burial rites of legendary gospel musician Yaw Sarpong are set for May 9, the family has announced.

Yaw Sarpong, the legendary Ghanaian gospel musician and founder of the Asomafo group, died on 20th January 2026 in Kumasi at the age of 66 after a brief illness.

About two months down the line, he is scheduled to go home in May.

The rites

On Friday, May 8, the rites will begin with a wake-keeping and be followed by a lying-in-state on Saturday, May 9, at the Asuofua Town Park. The burial service and final funeral rites will also take place at the park.

A thanksgiving service is scheduled for Sunday, May 10, at Sokoban-Ampayoo, after which mourners will return to Asuofua Town Park at 12:00 pm for further proceedings.

The family has requested that attendees adhere to a dress code: red and black for Saturday’s burial, and white and black for Sunday’s Thanksgiving service.

His passing came a few weeks after the death of Maame Tiwa, a prominent member of the Asomafo group, whose loss shook the gospel music community.

Yaw Sarpong had been unwell for several years and had reduced his public appearances while undergoing treatment.

He is widely recognised as a towering figure in Ghana’s gospel music landscape, having led Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo to national prominence. The group played a significant role in shaping contemporary Akan gospel music, earning respect for its rich lyrical depth and disciplined, doctrine-based musical style.

Throughout his career, Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo released several well-known gospel songs, including Wo Haw Ne Hwan, Tie Obiaa, Aduro Yesu, and Awurade Kasa, which remain popular in churches across the country.

In recognition of his contribution to gospel music, Yaw Sarpong received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards.

The family of the late gospel musician Yaw Sarpong has appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to grant him a state burial in recognition of his contributions to the nation.

In a video, the head of the family recounted the musician’s role in promoting peace during politically tense periods in Ghana’s history, particularly around elections under former President John Agyekum Kufuor and the late Jerry John Rawlings.

He said that at a time when the country was experiencing significant tension, Yaw Sarpong sold his private car to support efforts aimed at ensuring peaceful elections, driven by his desire to prevent violence similar to what occurred in Rwanda.

The family head also noted that the late musician used his music to raise funds to support the maternity unit at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, saying he was deeply concerned about the hardships women faced there. He added that Yaw Sarpong extended similar support to the prison system.

"On behalf of the family, we humbly ask President John Dramani Mahama to organize a state burial in honour of our cherished Yaw Sarpong," the family head appealed.

About Maame Tiwaa

Maame Tiwaa was widely admired for her long-standing collaboration with Yaw Sarpong and the Asomafo Band, a partnership that earned her a revered place in Ghana’s gospel music community.

After four decades in the industry, she recently earned her first nomination at the 3Music Awards 2021, marking a significant milestone in her career.

Known for her distinctive and angelic voice, Maame Tiwaa featured in several popular songs, including Tenabea Foforo, Yen Nka Nkyere Yen Agya, Sumenaso, and other well-loved gospel hits.

Since news of her passing broke, social media platforms have been flooded with tributes from fans, with many expressing deep sorrow and extending condolences to Yaw Sarpong and the entire Asomafo family.

The musician’s family has not yet released an official statement. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.