On Wednesday May 31, 2023, the renowned Ghanaian author, playwright and poet, Ama Ata Aidoo, passed on at the age of 81.
Aidoo death was revealed in a post on her official Instagram account.
“We are despondent to announce to you the passing away of our beloved grandmother, mother, auntie and sister Ama Ata Aidoo. A woman with intelligence who helped the African Literature scene.
“She’s indeed with the most high up there. Till we meet again, we bid you farewell mama. You’re indeed a legend. Rest easy Ama Ata Aidoo. #rip #restinpeace #restinparadise #ghana #literature #amataaidoo”, the message read.
According to the statement released by her family , Aidoo died after a brief illness.
It says, “Our beloved relative and writer passed away after a short illness,” the family revealed while urging members of the public to respect their privacy as they mourn the literary icon.
Born on March 23, 1942, in Abeadzi Kyiakor, Gold Coast (now Ghana), Aidoo was celebrated for her significant contributions to African literature and her commitment to feminist ideals
At the tender age of 15, she resolved to pursue a career as a writer, and within a mere span of four years, she managed to fulfill her aspiration when she received encouragement to participate in a writing competition.
She studied English and Drama at the University of Ghana and went further to earn a Masters degree and a Diploma in Education.
She produced her first play, ‘The Dilemma of a Ghost’ in 1965 which made her the first published African woman dramatist.
Aidoo’s writing often explores themes of gender, identity, cultural conflict, and post-colonialism. She is known for her strong female characters who challenge societal norms and advocate for women’s rights.
In 2000, she was awarded the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best Book (Africa) for her novel “Changes.” She has also been honoured with the Nelson Mandela Award for Poetry (2015) and a lot more.
She was a major influence on the younger generation of writers, including Nigeria’s awarding-winning Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
Several notable personalities, including actors and members of the literary community, have paid tribute to the late Aidoo.
