Writers’ Front honours late Nana Gyan-Apenteng at Literary Sunday

The Writers’ Front, Ghana, on Sunday held a special Literary Sunday in honour of the late Nana Kwasi Gyan-Apenteng, former Chairman of the National Media Commission (NMC), veteran journalist, and cultural advocate.

The event took place at ZOY Gardens, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) in Accra, drawing together writers, media professionals, traditional leaders, academics, and admirers who gathered to celebrate his extraordinary life and legacy.

The memorial, which combined readings, tributes, and reflections, was part of the broader programme to honour the memory of Nana Gyan-Apenteng, whose remains arrived in Accra last Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from London.

He passed away in May at age 74 while receiving medical treatment in the United Kingdom.

A Gathering of Writers and Cultural Icons

Speakers at the Literary Sunday described the late journalist as a rare blend of media professional, literary figure, and cultural icon who dedicated over four decades to shaping Ghana’s democratic and artistic space.

The Participants recited his writings, shared personal encounters, and reflected on his years of mentorship to younger journalists and writers.

Representatives of the Ghana Association of Writers (GAW), where he once served as President, praised him for championing Ghanaian literature and cultural identity at a time when globalisation threatened to erode indigenous values.

Reception of His Remains

Earlier in the week, a solemn ceremony was held at the VIP lounge of the Kotoka International Airport when the sealed casket bearing his body was received by family members and traditional leaders.

The Saanahene of Eti Amanfrom, Okatakyie Nana Anim I, alongside the Asafohene of Tutu Akuapem, Dr. Afua Asabea Asare, and other chiefs, led the rites to officially welcome him home.

The ceremony was marked by both tradition and prayer. Libation was poured, while Rev. Kingsley Asare Addo of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Dzorwulu, offered Christian prayers for the family.

The casket was later transferred to the morgue ahead of burial arrangements.

Tributes from the Media Community

A delegation from the National Media Commission (NMC) were also present at the airport.

Funeral Arrangements

The late journalist will be laid to rest on October 4, 2025, at Eti Amanfrom, New Tafo in Akyem Abuakwa, followed by a Thanksgiving service on October 5.

The Family elders say the rites will combine both Christian and traditional customs, reflecting his dual role as a cultural leader and devout Presbyterian.

Nana Gyan-Apenteng’s career spanned journalism, literature, culture, and public service.

A former Editor of The Mirror, he also served as Deputy Editor of the London-based West Africa magazine in the 1980s and 1990s.

On returning to Ghana, he was head of communications for the Third World Network and edited its Africa Agenda magazine.

He worked extensively as a media trainer and consultant for organisations including MTN Ghana, UN agencies, STAR Ghana, and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA).

From November 2015 to November 2018, he served as Chairman of the NMC, where he was credited with strengthening the Commission’s watchdog role in Ghana’s democratic process.