The Darkwanin Ekona Royal Family of Akyem Asafo and Apedwa, alongside the Presbyterian Church and the entire Asafo community, is mourning the loss of Nana Oduro Gyamfi-Darko, a revered statesman, community leader, and patriarch, who passed away on 31st July 2025 at the Bank Hospital. He was 76 years old.
Nana Oduro Gyamfi-Darko was more than a royal family elder—he was a symbol of wisdom, resilience, and service. His leadership within the Darkwanin Ekona Royal Family and his deep ties to Akyem Asafo and Apedwa have left an enduring legacy that will be remembered for generations.
His life was marked by dedication to family, faith, and community development.
The announcement of his passing was made by Barimah Boampong Darkwanin II, Chief of Akyem Asafo and Head of the Darkwanin Ekona Royal Family, together with other family elders, who described Nana Oduro Gyamfi-Darko as a figure whose guidance, generosity, and wisdom shaped not only the royal family but also the lives of countless community members.
A Life of Service and Legacy
Throughout his life, Nana Oduro Gyamfi-Darko championed education, community development, and spiritual growth.
He was a devout member of the Presbyterian Church, actively involved in initiatives that promoted education and welfare in the Asafo community.
His efforts extended to mentoring the youth, advising families, and preserving the rich traditions of the Akyem Asafo and Apedwa people.
Beyond his official roles, Nana Oduro Gyamfi-Darko was known for his humility, compassion, and ability to bring people together. Friends, family, and community members remember him as a man who listened with patience, advised with wisdom, and acted with integrity.
His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt across Ghana and among the diaspora community.
Funeral Arrangements
The final funeral rites will take place from Friday, 27th February to Sunday, 1st March 2026 at Akyem Asafo.
Friday, 27th February 2026
- There will be no wake-keeping.
Saturday, 28th February 2026
- Laying in state at his residence (off the main Accra–Kumasi Highway) from 4:30 am to 5:30 am
- Pre-burial service at 4:30 am
- Burial service at 9:00 am, followed by interment at the Ekona Royal Cemetery
- Private burial from 9:00 pm to 11:30 pm
- Funeral rites at the funeral grounds from 1:00 pm to 5:30 pm
Sunday, 1st March 2026
- Thanksgiving Service at the Presbyterian Church, Akyem Asafo at 9:00 am
- Final funeral rites immediately after the church service at the funeral grounds
Dress Code
- Saturday: Red and Black
- Sunday: Black and White
Family and Community
Nana Oduro Gyamfi-Darko is survived by children, 30 grandchildren, in-laws, nephews, nieces, and a large extended family spanning Ghana and abroad. The family has extended an open invitation to friends, sympathisers, and the general public to join them in celebrating a life well lived.
This funeral is expected to draw dignitaries, family members, and community leaders from across the region and the country, reflecting the enormous respect and admiration Nana Oduro Gyamfi-Darko commanded.
As the Asafo community and the Darkwanin Ekona Royal Family prepare to bid farewell, his life serves as a testament to the enduring power of leadership rooted in service, faith, and integrity.
