Tribute Wall
In Memory of
Mr. Alexander Kuma
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Pst. Alfred Attey posted a condolence
Friday, January 19, 2024
*THE 'CULTURAL APOSTLE' WEEPS ON AIR*
The passion was captivating, the zeal unmistakable. The vibrantly calm yet convincing tone was just as arresting. Anyone who knew him would immediately recognize Dr. H.V.A. Kuma, known to us as Pastor Kuma. But no, the grey bearded image that appeared on the Zoom meeting was different. It was Mr. Alex Nii Sowah Kuma, Pastor Kuma’s junior brother, a man we had missed for decades. Our later connection and chat enriched us on his ‘mission’ to our people, the Ga-Adangbe of Ghana.
So, the duo of Nii Sowah and junior brother, George Oko Kuma, also heavily grey-bearded, visited and freely distributed hundreds of sponsored vintage Ga books that we grew up with. Those were the educational tools with which we learned the language, the culture, and the history of our people. News feeds from the Ghana visit highlighted church, state, and local officials’ memorable welcoming receptions of Nii Sowah and entourage.
In all his activities, Nii Sowah exuded an easily identifiable passion that led him toward restoring the Ga language as a force—just like old times. But his fervor was rooted deeper still, in ancestral roots. He was the great grandson of Nii Emmanuel Okpoti ‘Nsro Dza’ Kofi, Abokobi’s first chief who ruled for 40 years (1857 – 1897), four years after the town was founded by missionaries in 1854. Everything about the town is rare. In sum, Abokobi, perhaps the only Vatican-like town in the world, has the Church (currently Presbyterian after the German Basel and the Scottish) as the head and also one of the three pillars of governance. The other two institutions being the chief and the Executive Office. But chieftaincy is more by a concerted election of the Church rather than by lineage.
Therefore, as presbyters to begin with, the chiefs have the fervency of spirit akin to that of the apostles. No wonder Nii Sowah identified himself as an “ancient spirit come to restore the Ga-Adangbe language” to its rightful place. Since language solidifies the very identity of a people, Nii Sowah’s poignant declaration was akin to that of a chief with a dedicated vision. Truly enough, from his teen years as a dressy young man with an Afro in sync with the era, he experienced an about-face when he felt divinely called. He took up his mantle and became known, throughout the latter part of his life, more as an activist vying to keep the Ga-Adangbe legacy alive.
Yet, effectually, the combination of his religious zeal as a Christian and Adventist stood him apart as his passion heightened to help his people redefine their identity beyond the basic struggle to provide daily basic needs of bread and butter. Added to his strong habit of embracing all other peoples of his nation, Nii Sowah became more of a Cultural Apostle. Convinced of his calling, therefore, he identified himself as the “ancient spirit come to restore the rightful place of the Ga-Adangbe.”
That passion burning within his heart was so strong, it overwhelmed him anytime he thought of his life’s noble goal. Truly enough, it surfaced recently during his most important and only interview on television during what was to be his last and most successful ‘mission trip’. Acknowledging the depth of his longing for his people’s cultural welfare, he broke down and wept. The hostess, Naa Shorme, caught off-guard, confessed she was overtaken with emotion, too.
Nii Sowah Kuma’s return back to Canada was to usher his ‘Eku Shi Egbekoshi’ (broken but still standing) Ga-Adangbe venture into a new phase of activism. But then he became indisposed suddenly and passed on within days. Mission accomplished? We would wonder long.
Prayerfully: Mrs. Margaret, Enoch, Bijou, & Pastor Attey
Accra; Edmonton; Maryland. –January 18, 2024
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Samir posted a condolence
Thursday, January 18, 2024
I am truly sorry to hear about Alex's passing. Please accept my deepest condolences during this difficult time.
May the love and memories you shared with Alex provide comfort and strength in the days ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Samir.
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Douglas McRonney-Apaw uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
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If I only knew how to comfort you ! But words cannot say what is in my heart, nor tell you how deeply I feel for your sorrow. My family and I love your husband and family. I will never get over missing him. You know we share your grief, but how I wish that sharing it could lighten the burden for you.
With our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Douglas McRonney-Apaw and family.
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Kelly Petit lit a candle
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
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I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Alex and my condolences to the entire Kuma family. I have so many great memories working with Alex. His sense of humour, enthusiasm and encouragement seemed endless. He was a very kind and giving soul and was such a pleasure to work with. His infectious energy and giving nature was inspiring to everyone that came in contact with him. His family and church - were his rock and I was in awe of his committment to his charitable work. Alex always signed off his notes to me as "Stay Blessed". I truly feel "Blessed" to have known Alex.
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Ike Aubynn posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
To believe you're gone and never to be seen again is just too much to process and let alone accept. You were either the first or always the first to reach destinations whenever we had gatherings. Your punctuality and adherence to time was first class. We will miss your calls and the inspirational messages you always sent to us.
We have lost a poineer and a mentor and will forever cherish every moment we spent together.
RIP UNCLE ALEX.
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Yolande Ignacio lit a candle
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
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I have such fond memories of Alex while we worked together at Staples. His energy and sense of humour were boundless and came in handy during all those marketing deadlines we were up against! He was a gentleman with the biggest heart. I have so much admiration for his charitable works and his enthusiasm for the causes he held dear. I hope his loved ones find solace knowing what an impact he made to those around him. He will be missed.
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Nii Teiko K.Kome lit a candle
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
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Alex Nii Sowah Kumah , my big brother , a great friend and a powerful mentor, I still can not believe that you are not here with us anymore.
“Aoo Aoo Aoo , gbele yitsho mli wa eei , hmmmm”
Alex Kumah was my senior at La Salem and was part of an elite group of young artist back then that included myself, George Kome (Adɔ̃dɔ̃ŋ Kootsɛ) Sowatey Adjei , Cecil Adjetey( Nleheko) Laryea Lomo and our senior Percy Markwei ( Nŋmɛtɛ) . I remember him visiting my father at his art studio and just having lovely conversations and exchanging ideas with him about his talent as an artist.
On one of his visits home to Ghana during a homowo festival, we reunited and joined with our other brother , George Nii Teiko Kome (Adɔ̃dɔ̃ŋ Kootsɛ ) and formed small family group. After all our parents were classmates and we all share the same passion for our beloved GaDangme , our culture and traditions being faded away slowly right in front of our eyes. Alex’s mother , George’s mother and my father Amon Kotei, were classmates and the other mates were Ako Adzei of the Big Six and Nathan Quao, the Head of Civil Service Secretariat at Osu Castle from Nkrumah time through to the PNDC period. George Nii Teiko K. Kome, Alexander Nii Sowah Kumah and myself, Richard Afutu Kotei decided to put our talents together and to forge ahead with projects that will foster development of our beloved GaDangme nation . I have put out over a hundred and fifty Ga Samai unto the existing known ones. , one of them being “ Edɔ Shi Ekuko, Eku Shi Egbeekoshi ) which I forwarded to my brother Alex as soon as I came up with it.
Alex, being a Graphic Artist, took to publishing the lost known Ga Learning books and Nii Teiko (Kootsɛ one) was and still is our battalion leader, the enforcer and the hammer took to advocasy of GaDanŋme lssues.
Dear Brother Alex, we your brothers Adɔdɔdɔŋ Kootsɛ and I Afutu say " Akɛɛɛ noko ni yaawɔ odzogbaŋŋ "
We will forever Love You and we will forever miss you.
Rest in peace .
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Akua Acheampong uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
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Uncle Alex will be missed. There was something about his smile that brought comfort to those around him. I will never forget how happy he made my mom, Ellen Ofori, feel when he surprised her at her 75th Birthday. Gone too soon, his legacy, impact, and memory will live on through Aunty Dina, his daughters, extended family members, and friends. RIP.
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Donna Marrin lit a candle
Monday, January 15, 2024
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There are no words to describe how sorry I feel to hear about the loss of Alex. Working with him was always a joy, as he was such a kind and decent soul. I hope that you feel a measure of comfort in knowing that you are in the thoughts and prayers of many. In time, your healing will come from the realization that a new, beautiful guardian angel is watching over you from above.
Love & prayers, Donna Marrin
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Winston Dalip lit a candle
Monday, January 15, 2024
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Sincere condolences to the Kuma Family on the passing of Alex – a wonderfully classy gentleman who I had the genuine pleasure of working with in years past, at Staples. His upbeat presence will be sorely missed. Wishes of strength of spirit during this difficult time.
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Nii Teiko K. Kome lit a candle
Monday, January 15, 2024
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Your Dad was my Classmate from Primary School to Middle School of La Presbyterian Salem School.His Last visit before this last visit,Alex,myself and Afutu Kotei formed a family group,our Parents were Classmates.My mother,Alex mother and Afutu Father were Classmates,other mates of our Parents were Ako Adzei of the Big Six,Amon Kotei,the Designer of Ghana Coat of Arm and Nathan Quao,the Head of Civil Service Secretariat at Osu Castle from Nkrumah time through to the PNDC period.My mother,Late Mrs. Agnes Kome,Alex mother,Mrs Kumah and Mrs Mantey were the only Females in the Class.Our becoming together as Children of this Great Classmates,me Nii Teiko K. Kome,Alexander NiiSowah Kumah and our junior at Salem school,Afutu Kotei decided to put our talents to forge the development of GaDangme.The three of us happens to be Leading Artists at School.Afutu has developed more Ga Samai unto the existing known ones.Alex,being Graphic Artist took to publishing the lost known Ga Learning books and myself Nii Teiko took to advocasy of GaDanŋme lssues.
Dear Brother Alex,you have fullfilled your dream and truly paid your dues.We believe,you are in the Bossom of the Almighty God.Alex,your saying EKU SHI EGBEKO SHI will continue to inspire us the living to continue to keep the torch burning to address pertinent issues facing our Belove GaDangme Region.Alex,Rest Peacefully.Wɔ dzogbaŋŋ.Eku shi egbeko shi.
Mi Onyɛmi kɛ Onane he nyo,Adɔdɔŋkootsɛ kɛ AtaaAfutu wɔ kɛɛ yaawɔ dzogbaŋŋ,wɔ baa ka he wɔtsu wɔ gbɛnaa nɔ ni wɔ to shishi lɛ.AtaaNaaNyɔŋmɔ kɛ bo ahi shi.Wɔ dzogbaŋŋ
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William Afful uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, January 14, 2024
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Our Deepest Condolences
May The Good Lord Wrap His Arms Around the Whole Family for Comfort
And The Holy Spirit be Your Peace and Strength
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Ellen Ofori uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, January 13, 2024
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Kyiɛ nu! Mini ofei nnɛ? Nnigbɛ oya? Nii Sowah, how is my vernacular so far? Alex, this is how your Asante girl Ellen wants you to know you are forever engraved in her heart and will continue to follow and continue the support for the course you believed in. Do REST IN PERFECT PEACE my friend♥️
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Desmond Nortey Akrong uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, January 13, 2024
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Our heartfelt condolences to the entire family of Nii Sowah Kuma. May the good Lord grant the wife and children comfort in this difficult time.
Nii Sowah Kuma was a stalwart within the Gadangme family. The GDRRI and the Gadangme Restoration Foundation say may you rest well in the bossom of the Lord. You have done your part for God and humanity.
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BROOKMAN OCRAN posted a condolence
Saturday, January 13, 2024
Brother Alex! A true compatriot. Intelligent, humble, and well-respected philanthropist. Your legacy in the Ga-Adangbe community is well deserved. You donated tons of literature on the Ga-Adangbe culture to both York University and several institutions in Accra. The good Lord blessed you with a beautiful wife and super smart young daughters. We'll ever continue to burnish your legacy. Gone too soon! May you have a well- deserved repose in the company of the angels in heaven. Brother, Rest in Perfect Peace.
Abeiku Ocran.
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Ayikoi Otoo posted a condolence
Saturday, January 13, 2024
Nii Sowah Kuma was a rare GaDangme whose love for his Tribe was immeasurable.He took it upon himself with philanthropists and other patriotic GaDangmes both in Ghana and in the Diaspora to salvage and restore the Language and Culture of his people.He diligently collected from individuals Ga and Dangme classical books out of print and found a technology to reprint them which he and his colleagues distributed free of charge thereby assisting all those interested in laying hands on those books to do so and enjoy reading them.
That singular act of selfless devotion and tenacity of purpose towards restoration of the Ga and Dangme languages marked him out as a special individual amongst his tribemen .His sudden departure when there is so much ahead of him is inexplicable and devastating to all members of the GaDangme Community.His love for GaDangme culture also impelled him to join regularly the Zoom link of Radio GaDangme programmes so as to take part in the discussions.
Nii Sowah Kuma will be sorely missed.He has plucked one of the branches of GaDangme Council by his passing.We pray earnestly and fervently for the repose of his soul whilst we hope that his colleagues whom he collaborated with especially in the reprinting exercise will reach out to the GaDangme Council to chart a new course in his absence.
May his soul and the souls of all the the faithful departed rest and abide in the bosom of the Lord.
WƆTSE KƐ WƆNYEMI NUKPA,YAAWƆ YƐ WEINTSELƐ KPƆKƆI AMLI KAASHI BEINYINƆ NI WƆBAA KPE EKOŊŊ !!!
HON AYIKOI OTOO
PRESIDENT
GADANGME ASSOCIATION/COUNCIL
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Pajerstina Naa Adjeley Tetteh uploaded photo(s)
Friday, January 12, 2024
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Meiz Majdoub posted a condolence
Friday, January 12, 2024
Alex, it was only a few years ago that we crossed paths again, after about 40 years of being separated. I've always loved your resilience in moving forward with the ga dangbe council and working very hard to make the Ga language maintain and grow it's Roots. We're going to miss that. Although I don't speak the Ga language, I was always willing to lend a small hand
Condolences to your family and rest in perfect peace my friend
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The family of Mr. Alexander Kuma uploaded a photo
Friday, January 12, 2024
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