Ghanaian police officer and artist Pabby Saraphina dies after reported short illness

Ghanaian policewoman and artist Lance Corporal Pabby Saraphina has reportedly died after a short illness, according to MyNewsGh.com.

Saraphina, who had recently been transferred to Kasoa, became widely known after attempting to set a Guinness World Record through a 120-hour painting marathon. Details about the circumstances of her death have not been disclosed.

The challenge took place in Koforidua, in Ghana’s Eastern Region, beginning on 20 September and ending at 3 pm on 25 September 2024. During the five-day event, Saraphina produced 105 paintings inspired by nature and Ghanaian culture.

Her marathon exceeded the 96-hour duration of the record she hoped to break. Through the attempt, she aimed to highlight her artistic ability, promote female artists internationally and create a platform for Ghanaian creativity.

In an interview with Starr News Eastern Regional Correspondent Kojo Ansah, Saraphina said the challenge was motivated by her desire to showcase her work and help women artists gain recognition beyond Ghana.

She also said she was pleased with her performance after completing more hours than she had originally planned.

Saraphina described facing doubts while pursuing painting and drawing, recalling that some people questioned her ability because they viewed artwork as a man’s profession. Despite that criticism, she remained committed to improving her skills and finding ways to display her work.

One of her ambitions was to establish an art gallery where she could exhibit her paintings and drawings.

Alongside painting, Saraphina was recognised for her pencil drawings. Before undertaking the 120-hour painting marathon, she had also completed an eight-hour private drawing marathon and was awaiting its outcome.

Her record attempt received support from senior officers within the Ghana Police Service. Eastern Regional Police Commander DCOP Twumasi Ankrah visited her during the challenge, accompanied by other officers, to encourage her as she pursued the goal.

The event brought attention to Saraphina’s work both as a police officer and an artist, while also reflecting her efforts to increase visibility for women in the arts.

MyNewsGh.com reported that she fell ill after her transfer to Kasoa and later died. The circumstances surrounding her death remain undisclosed.