A one-week memorial ceremony has been slated for tomorrow, Thursday, February 19, 2026, to honour the life and musical legacy of veteran gospel musician Yaw Sarpong, with the gathering set to take place at Asuofua Park in Kumasi.

The observance follows his passing on January 20, 2026, at the age of 66 after a prolonged illness.

News of his death, confirmed by his manager Nana Poku Ashis, prompted an outpouring of tributes from across Ghana’s gospel music community and beyond.

Sarpong’s demise has deeply affected his group, Asomafo Band, as well as the broader gospel fraternity.

The grief has been compounded by the recent loss of Maame Tiwaa, a long-serving member of the ensemble, just weeks earlier.

Family, clergy, fellow musicians and admirers are expected to attend the February 19 ceremony, which will reflect on a career that spanned more than four decades and played a pivotal role in shaping Akan gospel music.

Sarpong established the Asomafo Band in 1986 while living in Liberia before relocating to Ghana, where the group grew into one of the country’s most respected gospel institutions.

Over the years, he built an extensive catalogue, releasing more than 25 albums and recording over 100 songs.

Several of his works, including Wo Haw Ne Sɛn, Oko Yi, Tie Obiaa, Aduro Yesu, and Awurade Kasa, remain staples in church worship and on gospel radio playlists nationwide.

Known for fusing traditional Ghanaian rhythms with rich choral harmonies and strong scriptural messages, Sarpong’s music influenced countless church choirs and helped shape the direction of contemporary Akan gospel.

His contributions were formally recognised in 2025 when he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards.

Organisers say the one-week observance will include worship sessions, musical tributes and reflections on his impact as a songwriter, mentor and spiritual leader, a fitting farewell to a figure whose songs guided generations of Ghanaian worshippers.