A Celebration of Life

1972 - 2014

FORECOURT OF THE STATE HOUSE, ACCRA, GHANA, 7:00AM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2014 2 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Order Of Service SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2014

PART ONE PART TWO Pre-Burial Service Liturgical Service @ 9:00am (Forecourt Of The State House) Order Of Service • Arrival of the Body @ 7:00am • Entrance Song — CH 328 Lead us Heavenly Father • L aying in State for Last Respect (Dignitaries & other Special lead us Guests) • Introit — CH 224 Breathe on me Breath of God • Hymn/Song — All Choirs - File Past • Introductory Rites • Tributes • Opening Prayer 1. Multimedia Group Ltd (JOY FM) • 1st Reading — 1 Cor. 1: 26-31 2. British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) • Responsorial Psalm — CH 34 3. President of Ghana • Gospel — Luke 12:35-40 • Hymn/Song — Holy Spirit Cathedral Choir - File Past • Reflection • Tributes • Prayer of the Faithful (Intentions) 1. Family a) For the wife and Children 2. F ather (Prof. Ernest Koku Dumor) — CH 376 Take b) For the siblings my life c) For the father 3. Sister (Mrs. Mawuena Trebarh) d) For the Youth of Ghana 4. Brother (Dr. Korshie Dumor) e) For the staff of BBC & Joy FM • Hymn/Song — Winneba Youth Choir - File Past f) For all Departed Souls • Tributes • Offering — Medleys 1. Children • Biography 2. Wife (Mrs. Kwansema Dumor) • Widowhood Rites • Hymn/Song — Pax Romana Choir - File Past (FINAL) • Announcements • Closing of Coffin —“Consolation” from SONGS WITH- • Final Commendation OUT WORDS (Felix Mendelssohn) by Man on the Sax - Pastor Albert Asante PART THREE Funeral Rites, Refreshment for Special • CHOIRS IN ATTENDANCE Guests and Donations 1. Holy Spirit Cathedral Parish Choir 2. Pax Romana Choir (University of Ghana, Legon) PART FOUR 3. Winneba Youth Choir Private Burial (Rites at the Grave side)

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2014

• Thanksgiving Mass at The Holy Spirit Cathedral, Adabraka at 9:00am • Family meets at Home with Friends (private)

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 3 4 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Hymns

CH 376 CH 328 1. Take my life, and let it be 1. Lead us, heavenly Father, lead us, Consecrated, Lord to thee; Through the World’s tempestuous sea; Take my moments and my days, Guard us, guide us, keep us, feed us, Let them flow in ceaseless praise. For we have no help but you; Yet possessing every blessing, 2. Take my hands, and let them move If our God our Father be. At the impulse of thy love. Take my feet, and let them be, 2. Saviour, breathe forgiveness o’er us; Swift and beautiful for thee. All our weakness you do know, You did tread this earth before us, 3. Take my voice, and let me sing You did feel its keenest woe; Always, only, for my King; Lone and dreary, faint and weary Take my lips, and let them be, Through the desert you did go. Filled with messages from thee. 3. Spirit of our God, descending, 4. Take my silver and my gold; Fill our hearts with heavenly joy, Not a mite would I withhold, Love with every passion blending, Take my intellect, and use, Pleasures that can never cloy: Every power as thou shalt choose. Thus provided, pardoned, guided, 5. Take my will, and make it thine: Nothing can our peace destroy. It shall be no longer mine, CH 224 Take my heart; it is thine own: 1. Breathe on me, Breath of God, It shall be thy royal throne. Fill me with anew, 6. Take my love; my Lord I pour, That I may love what thou dost love, At thy feet its treasure-store. And do what thou wouldst do. Take myself, and I will be, 2. Breathe on me, Breath of God, Ever, only, all for thee. Until my heart is pure: CH 34 Until with thee, I have one will, Antiphon: My soul is longing for your peace, To do and to endure. Near to you, my God 3. Breathe on me, Breath of God, 1. Lord, you know that my heart is not proud, Till I am wholly thine, And my eyes are not lifted from the earth. Until this earthly part of me, 2. Lofty thoughts have never filled my mind, Glows with thy fire divine. Far beyond my sight all ambitious deeds. 4. Breathe on me, Breath of God, 3. In your peace I have maintained my soul, So shall I never die, But live with thee the perfect life, I have kept my heart in your quiet peace. Of thine eternity. 4. As a child rests on his mother’s knee, So I place my soul in your loving care.

5. Israel, put all your hope in God, Place your trust in him, now and evermore.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 5 6 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Celebrating Komla Afeke Dumor BIOGRAPHY

The Heritage and loved by his family and friends and admired as “The Boss Player” in his professional life. Komla Afeke (The Root of the Family) Dumor was born into a family of recognized educationists. His paternal grandfather, Michael Dumor, was a pioneer in the Catholic education proj- Early life and education ect in the Volta Region beginning from the 1930’s. His mater- nal grandfather, Philip Gbeho, the indomitable music master of Komla grew up on the campus of the University of Cape Coast Achimota School, was the composer of the National Anthem and, at three and half years, he insisted on joining his sister of Ghana. This was a tradition that emphasized the value of to attend the pre- school program offered at the University education, a drive for knowledge, the pursuit of excellence Primary School. In 1975, when his parents left for the United and service to ones country. Komla was born on 3rd October States of America, he began his formal education from the K-I 1972 to Prof Ernest Dumor a highly respected academic and a run by the United Methodist Church. He was admitted into the public servant and Cecilia Dumor (née Gbeho) an educationist, Spartan Village School where he began his real educational curriculum expert, and an editor of international repute. journey. In 1979, Komla and his older sister joined their father in the Tacoma –Seattle Area in the State of Washington. He Komla’s parents taught him the value of sacrifice and love for was enrolled in Wildwood Park Elementary School in Puyallup country through their own professional work. His father was and then Daffodil Valley Elementary School a year later. The responsible for the building of the Ghana National Identifica- years with his father created a very intense bond between tion Systems and the regulatory National Identification Au- them. But those years remained significant in Komla’s early life thority established to manage the system. Any child in Ghana because as a black African child in a racially polarized environ- who has been to secondary school in the last 25 years, has ment, he came face to face with a much more concealed yet been touched by Komla’s mother. She almost single - hand- dangerous form of racial discrimination. edly supervised the production and edited 50 textbooks even though she was then chronically ill with rheumatoid arthritis. At that tender age Komla had to rely on the support of his parents to deal with this widespread problem in the American Komla was born into a Roman Catholic family and was school system. With the right encouragement and family sup- brought up according to the teachings of the Catholic Church port, Komla dealt with the racial obstacles by working extra particularly as to the sanctity of family and marriage. He was hard on his school assignments. He was made to cultivate nurtured to internalize basic Christian virtues of humility, the habit of reading and spent quite a lot of his leisure time charity, diligence, patience, kindness and temperance. He lived with his nose in a book. He read books that told the story of these virtues in his family and professional life. He was strong slavery in America and the profiles of great African American and firmly grounded in his Christian walk and he would say Achievers noting clearly how they got to the top in the face ever so often that whatever GOD had endowed him with must of extreme difficulties. Komla realized very early that these be shared. achievers got to the top by pursuing a disciplined life, excel- The above is just part of the kaleidoscope of Komla’s heritage. lence and a hunger for knowledge and perseverance. However, Komla was taught not to bask in the achievements When Komla reached the fifth grade in Daffodil Valley Ele- of his grandparents, parents and recognized family members, mentary School, he offered to participate in the inter-schools but to carve a niche for himself by applying creatively the gift district spelling bee competition. His class teacher at the time of heritage. who stereotypically thought Komla was only fit for sports, dis- As a result of these influences, Komla through his own passion missed him by a simple wave of the hand. His parents protest- for good, justice and fair play, and a concern for the poor and ed and the school allowed him to contest. Komla confounded disadvantaged, evolved into a masterpiece of GOD, cherished everyone by reaching the finals and finally becoming the first

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 7 runner-up. Komla had set the stage for himself and his family wanted to pursue a law degree and then specialize in forensic in the Sumner Community where this African family was con- science. The parents thought the idea was great but switch- stantly on the invitation list to potluck lunches and dinners. ing from a science-based program to an Arts program was going to be fraught with dangers. The University authorities In the Sumner Community, Komla was also the star footballer recommended that Komla would be on solid grounds if he on the only football team – The Kicks. He came home with a would take a degree in the Arts or the Social Sciences. Without lot of trophies awarded to him. He was equally the star athlete. hesitation he agreed and entered a program in Sociology/Psy- With the help of his mother, Komla learnt to play the piano chology at University of Ghana for a Bachelor’s degree. and soon became a star performer in his school of western classical music.

To widen the intellectual horizons of Komla and his siblings, Broadcast Career the parents organized educational tours which took the family to Canada, states in the Great Lakes Region of the United States, a journey from the Pacific Northwest all the way to Eastern Seaboard. These were great opportunities that allowed him and his siblings to have their imaginations run wild and stimulated them to always consider greater possibilities.

In 1983 Komla’s parents left the United States of America for Kano State Nigeria. Much to the anguish of himself and his siblings, Komla had no choice but to relocate too. On arrival, Komla’s parents realized that his intellectual growth needed to be nurtured differently rather than place him immediately in the Kano State School System. He and his brother were, therefore, put into a personalized program run by a lady from India called Mrs Satur. It was a driven program meant to draw out of the children as much of their academic potential as Komla at the Multimedia Group/JOYFM possible and set them on a course for excellence. In this period the parents took a decision not to have television at home, a Int his firs year in the University of Ghana, his sister drew his sore point initially for the children but later in life a decision attention to an advert in the newspapers requesting appli- that they would always concede was the best thing for them at cants for a position on air as a traffic reporter for the fledgling that stage of their lives. station Joy FM. The show and the interview were held at the office of the program sponsor, Mobitel, a telecom provider. In 1984, Komla was admitted into St Thomas Secondary Komla showed up at the interview to find hundreds of people School in Kano and placed in Form Two. He went through waiting for the same position he had come to interview for. A the prescribed academic program successfully graduating at friend took him to the interview room, where Komla told them the top of his class. He took the Nigerian Joint Admission and to stop the interview and send everyone else home. He was Matriculation Examination for admission to any of the Nigerian the man they wanted. They liked his smile and his confidence. Universities at the time. The results of the examination placed He got the job. Little did they know that for National Service Komla in the band of students who could be admitted to start he had worked on Radio at the Ghana Broadcasting Corpo- a pre-medical program. He was only 16 years old. ration a year earlier doing an early morning program called “Every Day English”. His new broadcast career thus took off on It was an extremely hard decision for Komla’s parents to see the back of a motor scooter riding around Accra at 4 am every him leave home so young and at such an impressionable age. morning giving reports on traffic in the capital. It was hard for Komla himself but with his sister in the same institution, he launched into his tertiary educational journey. Soon thereafter, Komla was noticed by the management as So it was, Komla entered the University of Jos in Plateau State an individual not only with a voice for radio but very much in Nigeria. After four years of the pre-clinical studies, Komla control of the English Language and very well informed on abandoned the program and returned to Ghana. issues of public policy. This was essentially the bridge on which Komla walked into the position of Presenter of the Joy FM On his return home Komla indicated to his parents that he Super Morning Show.

8 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Komla’s place as the driver in the emerging market of private Professors. Last week alone I got back four (4) papers and the radio and its transforming power in support of democratic worst grade was A- which is quite remarkable considering the practice and its ethos will remain legendary. He handled every fact that Harvard uses the forced grading curve system’. aspect of the program with consummate professionalism. Komla graduated at the top of his graduating class and elo- He took on major national development issues that many of quently delivered the Valedictorian address for the class. his colleagues felt afraid to handle. His engaging personality confidence and passion for evidence, setting the contours for Soon after his graduation he was offered a position at Brown public debate endeared him to many Ghanaians irrespective of University in the Africa Leadership Program. This was a political affiliation. program established by the University to allow former Heads of State in Africa to spend a year reflecting and writing their Komla found the Super Morning Show as the biggest and memoirs. Before he could accept the offer Kwasi Twum the the best platform to fight the cause of the ordinary people CEO of JOY FM arrived in Boston to plead with Komla to of the country whose poverty touched him deeply. Komla’s return home to take back the Super Morning Show. Komla investigative skills led to the exposure of corruption which he returned and rebuilt the morning program and raised the bar regarded as wholly unacceptable. He was prepared to pay the even further. price and his appearance at the Commission of Human Rights and Administrative Justice will remain a point of reference in investigative journalism. Komla at BBC – From Ghana to the World’s For the many things he had done, the Ghana Journalists Asso- Newsroom ciation nominated him as the Journalist of the year 2003. This award was the occasion for some to declare resolutely that he The work of Komla attracted the attention of the manage- was not a journalist. As Komla himself, in an assessment of this ment of BBC, particularly its African Service, whilst he was still period in his career, would tell his parents “Ignorance is blissful working at Joy FM. but, painfully, many people suffer as a result of it”.

At the Initial stages, the BBC sent him to Uganda to develop Komla at the Kennedy School of Government—Harvard and present some burning issues in Uganda’s development. Thereafter, he was involved in presenting a special programme Komla was always hungry for knowledge. Therefore he took covering the migration of young African males through the the opportunity to enter the prestigious Kennedy School at Sahara into Spain. This programme was very well received. Harvard University to study for a Master’s Degree in Public Policy. In a letter Komla wrote to his parents he stated the In 2006 Komla was officially invited to join the BBC African following Service in London as host of the radio programme Network Africa. From 2008 to 2012 he was one of the presenters for ‘The academic program has been rigorous and intense. But I the BBC flagship programme, “The World Today”. have coped very well. I have generally topped my class in most cases and developed some really good relationships with some Because of Komla’s special interest of the experiences of

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 9 Africans in the Diaspora, he was at home when he presented a and unequal distribution of resources within those countries. special programme on slavery and its abolition in the UK. As he would say, “there must be balance” or “please, don’t patronise me”. He was not just simply a ‘broadcast journalist’ Through dint of hard work, Komla began an ascent into the but an intellectual with great analytical skills. elite class of radio and television presenters, not only at BBC, but worldwide. With this opportunity, Komla saw an avenue to BBC Television offered Komla a platform to showcase his help bring Africa into the mainstream of the global news sys- varied skills. Komla was amongst a selected few who consti- tem. He felt, like many Africans, that the continent had been tuted the core team that covered the wedding of the Duke written out of history and therefore it was necessary to use and Duchess of Canterbury 2011, the Olympic Games held that platform to create a more accurate picture of the huge in London 2012, and the World Cup in South Africa 2010, to potential of Africa. As destiny would have it, in 2011, Komla name a few. began his new role on BBC Television and soon became an Komla’s work at BBC Television was not limited to just news instant celebrity newscaster. presentation - he had the opportunity to interview some of the It did not take very long for the BBC to realise his passion for world’s richest people: Bill Gates, Richard Branson, Alhaji Aliko the transformation of Africa. Consequently, the management Dangote, Dr. Mo Ibrahim. In addition, he interviewed very highly of BBC Television decided to develop a programme that placed world leaders; these include Bill Clinton, President Kag- focused on Business, Trade and Development in Africa. He ame, President John Dramani Mahama and Kofi Annan, former became the main anchor for the internationally acclaimed pro- UN Secretary General, and covered President Barrack Obama’s gramme ‘Africa Business Report’ on BBC World Television. recent trip to Africa. The famed author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, was also among people he interviewed. In pioneering the launch of Africa Business Report, he set out to challenge the stereotypic view of Africa. He was very pas- The high point in all this was his towering presence in South sionate about telling the story of a continent that was rapidly Africa during the funeral of Nelson Mandela, former President changing and taking its rightful place in the world. of South Africa. He brought home to Africans and the world at large the place of Nelson Mandela in World History, and was Komla endeared himself to his audiences because of his own able to draw out the family of Nelson Mandela to share their unique style of presentation. Indeed, Komla raised the bar of moments of life with this African Icon and their passion for a broadcast journalism particularly in his presentation of the new hope for Africa. These interviews with the Mandela family new programme, ‘Focus on Africa’. will remain a special tribute to Komla himself.

Komla soon became the face and the voice of Africa Rising. He In his short life he also became the icon who took history in had become the international Ambassador of the continent. his hands and strove for his country and continent so that the He did not seek to glorify Africa in his Africa Business Report world might see what is good. and Focus on Africa. He maintained a balance in his presentation. He was always prepared to dig deeper, only seeking the In a list published in New African magazine (December 2013) truth. He presented, when the opportunity came, the uneven he was named as one of the 100 most influential Africans of

10 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR the year 2013, with the citation: “It has been a coming of age for Komla Dumor this year. The presenter of Focus on Africa, the BBC’s flagship and first-ever dedicated daily TV news programme in English for African audiences, broadcast on BBC World News, has established himself as one of the emerging African faces of global broadcasting. As a lead presenter for BBC World, Komla has considerable influence on how the continent is covered.”

Personal life

In 2001 Komla married Kwansema Quansah with whom he had three children Elinam Makafui (God has always been there Death for me, Praise him) 11years old, Elorm Efadzinam (God loves Komla Dumor died on 18 January 2014 in his London home, me, he comforts my heart) 9 years old, and Emefa Araba (I having been on air the day before. am at peace) 3 years old. His love and devotion to his three children was his greatest mission and he often said that of all How sad that a leading light of African journalism, determined the professional and personal nicknames he had, the name he to tell the true story of Africa, has left us so suddenly? But most loved to be referred to was “Daddy” by his three kids. we’re consoled that his legacy will remain.

He loved good clothes and good food, loved to laugh and We are grateful to all those who are here today to pay their loved to tease. But beyond all the glitter he was just an ordi- last respect to this young and outstanding human being nary, simple, and caring person. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 11 Tribute By Mrs. Kwansema Dumor (WIDOW)

12 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR “Through all the changing scenes of life, In trouble and in joy, The praises of my God shall still My heart and tongue employ”

Eighteen years ago, I met a remarkable young man who was you see in this student boyfriend of yours that you chose him intelligent, knowledgeable, confident, eloquent and charming. over others who appear to have already made it“? And I would His name was Komla Dumor. He became the love of my life say, “Besides the fact that I’m in love with him, Komla is deep. and one of the best gifts God gave me. It was the Lord who He has something the others don’t have. I believe Komla has brought us together and He preserved our union till the end. the potential to do great things.” And wow, did he deliver, even beyond my wildest dreams! I met Komla when we were both students at the University of Ghana, Legon. The first time I interacted with Just a few months ago I said to him, “Dear, do him was at a Sociology group discussion you know what is even better than lying in and Komla absolutely blew me away with the arms of a man you love who is your hus- his knowledge and eloquence. I sat and band?” He asked, “What?” I replied, “When listened to him in awe. In the end, I felt so that man is Komla Dumor.” Oh, I knew intimidated that I decided not to participate what I had! I knew I had a husband who in any study group he was involved in. had chalked such immense success that people the world over admired him. I also And yet over time, Komla drew me in and knew that I was in a position many women gradually won me over. He wooed me with coveted. It was a privilege to be a part of his his baritone, velvety voice; he mesmerized life. The children and I were so proud of his me with his cool gait and air of supreme many accomplishments and we basked in confidence; he continually made me shake the global recognition he received. with laughter with his great sense of humour and wit. But above all, Komla won Indeed, Komla was a good and loving hus- me over with his intellect and his dream band and companion to me and a wonder- to pursue an extraordinary life. With his ful father to our children, Elinam, Elorm and words he painted for me a vision of the future that sounded so Araba. In his unselfish way, he encouraged and supported me glorious, so exciting and fulfilling that I yielded and eventually to pursue graduate study at Harvard as he had done. As he vowed to him, ‘till death do us part.’ We began dating before was so much in the limelight, I remained less visible in order he embarked on his brilliant career as a journalist, but even to preserve some privacy and normalcy for the family. He was then I knew Komla was special and would attain great heights. such a great presence in our lives and my heart aches for my loss and for my children, who have lost a fantastic and devoted Some of my friends at the time asked, “Kwansema, what do father.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 13 Saturday, January 18th 2014 started like a normal Saturday miss our family trips and the jokes and stories you told as we for us. A day the children and I could shut the world out and went, in a manner that only you could. We will miss the special have Komla to ourselves. A day when he was simply Daddy family times on Sundays when you made Daddy’s special stir and my husband. But now that day marks the beginning of fry and insisted we all sit down at table and use our best dinner a painful and aching void that we still cannot come to terms plates. It will never never be the same without you. I will carry with. How can Komla be gone? How can he be forever silent? with me forever precious and many lovely memories of our How can he not come walking through the door of our home journey together, through Harvard at Peabody Terrace, to Gha- in the evenings when the kids and I would trip over ourselves na and then to the United Kingdom. to be the first to hug him? How? And yet that morning when I Thank you for all you did to make the world a better place for woke up, my prayer was this: “I will trust in the Lord with all my us. We love you and miss you terribly. heart and lean not on my own understanding. In all my ways I acknowledge Him and He will direct my paths. Lord, I commit My only consolation now is that you are with the Lord. Till we my husband and my children into Your hands this day.” meet again, Komla, my love, rest in perfect peace. So now I lift up my eyes to the hills — where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let my foot slip, He who watches over Your wife, Kwan me will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is my shade at my right hand; the sun will not smite me by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep my children and I from harm, the Lord will watch over our lives and our coming and going, both now and forevermore.

Komla, I will miss your voice. I will miss that well of wisdom and knowledge that the children and I continually drew on. I will

14 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tribute By Children TRIBUTE TO OUR DADDY

Dear Daddy,

You have been a wonderful father to us and we love and miss you.

We remember the times you told us stories at bedtime and when you used to make your delicious stir fries and meals for us especially on Sundays.

We remember when you would walk us to our piano lessons and sit and wait for us and walk us back home.

We also remember when we went with you to Elorm’s football matches and you stood there on the sidelines even in winter – encouraging him, and calling out to him to do his best.

We loved rushing downstairs in the mornings to switch on the TV and see you presenting the news with your broad grin.

We fondly remember the family trips when you told us jokes and funny stories in the car that made us laugh and laugh.

We loved it when you came back from your travels from different countries and showed us interesting pictures and told us about the things you saw. You promised you would take us to all the countries you had visited and share your experiences with us.

We will always remember our birthdays with you, when you and mummy would bring us breakfast in bed and pray with us and advise us.

You always had answers to our questions and we marvelled at how you knew so much!

You always encouraged us to dream big, not to be “mediocre” and to strive to be excellent at whatever we chose to do. We will make you proud.

Daddy, rest in peace with God, and we hope to see you again in heaven one day.

Love always, Elinam, Elorm and Araba

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 15 16 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tribute By Professor Ernest Dumor FROM: DADDY , TO KOMLA: MY GIFT OF LOVE.

Komla, I am led to this simple but very profound verse in the • God doesn’t require us to succeed; He only requires us to Scriptures ‘Teach me your ways and I will walk in your truth’. try. Yes indeed Komla you strove in your short life to walk in his • I alone cannot change the world but I can cast the stone truth. across the waters and create many ripples. Therefore no amount of words or pontification on my part as • I am not sure exactly what heaven will be like, but I know your father, can change what you have become. Your achieve- when we die and it comes time for God to judge us, he will ments are inalterable facts My words cannot increase the not ask How many good things have you done in your life? inmeasurable impact you have made by touching the lives of Rather he will ask, How much love did you put into what so many especially the voiceless and those who have been you did. written out of history. • I know God won’t give me anything I can’t handle. I just Komla you were a gift to me and your dear mother Cecilia. By wished he did not trust me so much His Grace, loving kindness and compassion we nurtured this gift. You became the priceless gift to our community to our • If you are humble nothing will touch you, neither praise nor country to Africa and the rest of the world. In your professional disgrace, because you know what you are. work as a broadcast journalist or are you not a journalist, it was almost as if you were repeating to yourself all the time the Komla your journey was a journey in faith and in our despair famous line of the Roman lyrical poet Horace Odes “Dulce et and afflictions as a family you helped all of us to experience decorum est pro patria mori—it is right and fitting to die for the shining moments of faith. ones country”. And you did. That is why so many people from Komla you have become an icon for many, a gem for many all walks of life have come to pay their respects. Komla you are more . But for me, your sister Mawuena and your brother the legacy. I am so ever grateful to the Almighty God for your Korshie you will forever be the root of the home your mother life. What else can I say or do but to go on my knees to say I created for all of us confess my faith in you, Lord through praise and worship. Komla Afelike (Du wo fe mo) Dumor , we as a family faced so You brought honor dignity and indeed a feeling of fulfillment much pain , so much suffering. Yet we also shared the joy of to us. You gave full expression to the basic core values which life. Now you have a new life because God has called to your we cherished as a family —discipline, hard work, a zeal for rest. knowledge, self-giving, self denial, self –abnegation, self –culti- vation, and personal integrity. Komla , ‘ you surely shall weep no more. He will surely be gracious to you. When he hears he will answer you’ (Isaiah 30:19- Because you had an abiding faith in these values God showed 26) Yes indeed you have sown in tears and He has indeed you his compassion and allowed you to break the barriers to called you to come back full of song. (Ref: Psalm 129) the chagrin of the detractors. I am very profoundly proud of you. Agbofoati Zonyra Thank you for every moment we shared together. I have loved you and I will always love and cherish you. As I reflect on your life I feel so convinced that somewhere along your life’s journey Blessed Mother Theresa was whisper- Rest in Perfect Peace. ing in your ears the following;

• A life not lived for others is not life. • Each one of them is Jesus in disguise.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 17 Tribute From Mrs. Mawuena Trebarh

For Komla from Mawuena - I am thankful to GOD for you. Everybody who knows us knows how much we mutually loved, admired and respected each other. I took pride in every single one of My dearly beloved brother Komla, your personal and professional achievements and cried tears of joy many times when I would see you excel time and time again. I am now It is well and I am thankful to GOD for you. It is my prayer that this let- unable to watch television, read the newspapers or listen to the radio ter finds you at peace resting in GOD’s glorious presence, joyful about for fear of breaking down as yet another tribute about you is read. life in a higher realm. Don’t worry though. I am going to start working on that when I get It has been such a strug- out of stage one grief. But I remain so quietly proud of every single gle to put pen to paper one of the achievements GOD blessed you with and I continue to see attempting to write a tribute the evidence of your sacrifice in the unprecedented outpouring of love to you. Where would I even shown to us from literally every corner of the globe. I am thankful to begin? Having been only a GOD for you. year and a few months older Right up until January 17th 2014, our daily habit of “checking in on than you, I know you will each other” via text message this time, had been completed with an recall the joys of the unique agreement to touch base again the next day. Little did I know, that and special childhood we GOD had HIS master plan and that that was not to be. had by divine providence in being nurtured by two truly As GOD blessed you, Korshie and me with Elinam, Elorm, Eyram, See- wonderful parents. I look nam, Keli, Katherine and Emefa, we have shared in the joy, excitement back on our growing years and trepidation of now having to instill the same values we grew up in humble beginnings in the with in our children and do even better. Sharing with each other their US as our parents made progress was typically the subject of most of our daily discussions great sacrifices to give us and I remain thankful for the gifts of those times to laugh, pray, cry the academic and social ex- and encourage each other in our hopes and aspirations for the future. periences that would shape Be assured that Daddy, Korshie and I will do our utmost to support who GOD has allowed us to Kwansema to pursue your true legacy which is those three precious become in adulthood. Later and beautiful children- Elinam, Elorm and Emefa. joined by Korshie, all three of us bound together in an You once said that every “David” needs a “Nathan” to walk this earth everlasting bond through and that you were still seeking yours. I pray that you have finally our collective experiences encountered the ultimate “Nathan” who is Christ Jesus. You also said as siblings from our youth. “Life is too short to be served up small portions!” It is my prayer that I remember with nostalgia you are served up big portions at the table of GOD. I am really thankful happy playtime scenes as to GOD for you. Now that you have taken the lead out of this physical very young children on Cape Coast University campus, with you and I world, continue to intercede with Mammy on our behalf. getting sick after eating too many bananas or being reprimanded for attempting to use our new baby brother, Korshie, to taste-test meals Komla, Afeke Dumor, my true friend, my cheerleader, my confidant, my before we would agree to eat! brother. I love you dearly. I will miss your physical presence for the rest of my life. I am thankful for the deep bond we had which I will continue You often teased me about taking my big sister duties a bit too far to strengthen with Korshie. I will share with your children what a giant since I had gained a reputation for being the “Mohammed Ali” to be of a man you were on earth and support them to rejoice in the knowl- avoided in our neighborhood should I discover anyone picking on my edge of your spirit being always around us all. brothers! But Komla what could I have done? Mammy and Daddy said all we have is each other. Indeed, as we progressed through tertiary I thank GOD for all HE designed you to become in 41 years. I thank academic experiences, your resolve to reciprocate my commitment GOD for everything. We shall always remain “closer than close”. to you grew as did your physical size and stature. So during our time Love Always, together at the University of Jos in Nigeria you were constantly “monitoring” me to ensure no “sketchy guys” were buzzing around me. Your sister Mawuena. I want you to know today, that even though I was annoyed about your “monitoring”, deep down I was thankful for that third objective eye, looking out for my very best interest.

18 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tribute From Dr. Korshie Dumor

people at ease. You could make people feel as if you had been their friend for years. In an airport lounge, you would strike up a conversation with another transiting passenger and would while away the time until it was time to board.

School for me was easy. I would arrive with ready-made cred- ibility. I was Komla’s brother. No further introductions were required. People sometimes talk about how hard it is to be a junior in a secondary school. I had no idea what they were talking about. You always were a protected blazing path ahead of me that I would only have to walk through. Throughout our life, you never placed any pressure on me other than to be the best that I could be. You are honest and kind. You took delight in helping others. When there was a need for someone to lead, we would all naturally gravitate towards you. Everyone knew that you would be fair and often put your own needs behind those of others.

We would share our secrets, our hopes and our aspirations, what we wanted to do and how we would do it. Lying in our room late at night, you would tell me stories into the early hours of the morning until we both fell asleep invigorated by your dreams. You have a way of dreaming big but at the same How do I tell the story? How can I compress all my feelings time making it all seem very attainable. and thoughts about you into a passage? It is not possible but For all of your popularity, you remained well grounded. You I will try. Komla, from the time I was brought home from the would never trumpet your own success. For you, this was not hospital, there had always been one constant in my life. It was the Dumor way. For someone who could entertain a crowd, you. Our entire childhood, we shared a bedroom together. you are a very quiet and reserved individual on a personal lev- I suppose like every younger brother I idolized my big brother. el. “A good day for me”, you once told me, “would be locked in a You represented what I could become. Older, wiser, faster and library all day long with enough food to keep me”. stronger. Unlike daddy, I could see myself as you in a few years. As your star rose, you remained true to yourself. We would be I model myself after you and you are the perfect model. You together and people would recognize you. We have never got- understood the responsibility of being an older brother to me ten over how funny you thought this was. People would stop and a younger brother to Mawuena. You always supported me you to argue over points that you have made on the air over a in anything I did. Gently correcting me, guiding me with the month ago. Not once did you refuse to speak to them. With a wisdom you had acquired in the 2 1/2 years you had been on beaming smile, a big handshake or a warm embrace you with the earth before me. engage with them. It could be a president, it could be a petty As kids, the family moved several times- six different homes trader, you treated everyone the same. You showed them love by the time I was nine. The frequent moves meant we had to and respect and placed the value on them as an individual. learn how to interact with new people and make new friends You were authentic and people could feel this in you. Who you with ease. It also meant that the only friends I could be certain were in your public life was as cool as who you were in private. of keeping were you and my sister. It forged within us a strong “Korshie what you do when no one is looking, when the camer- and unbreakable bond. You always have a gift for putting as turn off, is what makes you who you really are.”

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 19 Tribute From Korshie Dumor

There are parts of you that few people knew. Starting your As in life, Komla you have gone ahead of me. Tell Mummy we morning with a word of prayer, an uplifting verse. The call, or say Hi. Let her know we are well, Let her know that together we text message you would constantly send to encourage me and achieved what we all thought was impossible - We got Daddy others. Your stories were always full of hope and a chance to to throw away the khaki pants she hated so much! I am com- edify. This was how you felt about Ghana and Africa. You loved forted by the knowledge that we will meet again. When I get your job and could not believe that the BBC would pay you to to the gates of Heaven once again I will need no introduction, I travel across the African continent doing what you would have will simply say “I am Komla’s brother.” gladly done for free. You have such great hopes for the African You once said to me “Korshie, I don’t fear death, it comes to us continent and the African century. all. I fear not making a difference.” You always had a spirit that For all that you did for all those who knew you, what con- was much older than your age. Perhaps, this is why you have cerned you most, what you were truly proudest of were your left us so early. But rest in perfect peace big brother. You have three children: made every difference in this world.

Elinam, your father talked about you always. When you would get distinctions in your schoolwork or performances, he would send us pictures of the certificates.

Elorm, every goal you scored an football I would hear about. The time he spent with you and your siblings were when he was happiest.

Araba, your every step, your laugh, the things that you said that made him smile, he was so proud to post online for all to see.

The world has lost an African giant. But you, the children, have lost much more. He would gladly trade all his achievements just to see you fulfill your individual potentials. Rest assured that he watches over you and we are going to stand resolute with you. Your father was irreplaceable.

Now here I stand for the first time in my life, I do not have you Komla to turn to. I have to forge my own path. This is unfamil- iar ground. I still have you in my phone listed on my favorites list. I still grab up my phone thinking that there may be a text message from you. The pain I feel for you is deep, Komla. There is a hole in my soul that I struggle to fill.

20 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tribute From Auntie Eugenia (Auntie Bobo)

It was with great joy when my older brother Prof. Dumor called would surely continue your hard work. I love you, but the me that Komla took an appointment with BBC in London, and Almighty God loves you more! Sleep well. When the trumpets that I should expect him. A few days after his arrival in London, sound, we shall meet each other with joy and praise our Maker I picked him up to my house and we had a good time together till eternity. with my family. We always exchanged visits till his family joined God keep you, and rest in perfect peace. him from Ghana.

Anytime Komla needed me and my husband we had always been there for him and the family. Anytime he saw me, he Mrs. Eugenia Dumor-Nunoo exclaimed with joy “Auntie Bobo”. One time he lifted me in the air when we visited him; that was how far he showed his love (Auntie Bobo) to me. He often called to find out how I was doing and I did the London same.

At the outdooring of Emefa, Komla was at his best in his apron doing the barbeque. He called, “Auntie Bobo”, come closer, and we gossiped about big sister Mawuena and his great father Prof Dumor. We couldn’t help laughing at his “TOLI”.

We met at St George’s Hospital in Tooting to visit his sick uncle who had been admitted there early January this year. He was so concerned about his uncle that he spent almost two hours with him at the hospital. Before we parted, he gave me his usual big hug and he held me longer than necessary, and thanked me for being there for them.

We promised to meet again at the hospital on 18 January, and when I got the call from his wife, Kwansema, I thought it was in connection wjth his visit to the uncle at the hospital. But lo and behold, it was an urgent call for me to come to their home immediately. We managed and drove the distance to his home only to see my son so cold in silence. “Komla, Komla”, I shook his body and called out to him, but still no response. Komla was sleeping! It was a sleep without return! I’m broken and torn into pieces because he never said a word to me. He would never leave my heart.

Komla, Auntie Bobo says “AYEKOO”. I’m proud of you because you touched many lives. Your children assured us that they

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 21 Tribute From Letter From Your Cousins Auntie Vivian ENYO, KOFI, ELSIE, BESSA, NII AHENE, WISDOM, KELVIN, KENNETH

Our eyes were filled up Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereun- with tears as we received to thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession the news, could this before many witnesses. —1 Timothy 6:12 (KJV) really be true? This was In your early days as the host of the Joy FM morning show, what we kept asking and your smooth and silky voice would brighten my morning. I wishing it wasn’t real. looked forward to your thought- provoking interviews, your We laid in our beds and wide range and excellent choice of music as well as your witty cried at night, hoping the and humorous comments. I would always catch myself burst- morning will be better ing into laughter and would rhetorically ask my children in the but this was never to be. car “whose son is this”. The thought of it brings Listening to Joy FM became a part of me largely because of so much pain to us. As you and I must admit my interest began to dwindle after you young adults, we thought left the station. Though I was very happy about the news of we will see our parents you joining BBC and being ecstatic whenever you appeared on age gracefully and hand TV; I still could not help switching from Joy FM for a while. over the baton to us as we mature. Unfortunate- It was not surprising that you became my son later on in life. ly some of them passed I believe that fate brought you into my life. Komla, you had a on, but we still dreamt and hoped that we will have each other way of making everyone feel special, you would ask of people around for a long time and see our own children grow and and things that meant a lot to me to show that I meant a lot to our dreams actualize. Now we stand here today bidding you you. Your brain I found to be a well -oiled machine. You could farewell. have amazing conversations about anything and everything and after any conversation with you I would walk away mar- In recent times, we didn’t get to spend a lot of time together velled and full of admiration. due to your travels and our own challenging schedules but there was the family spirit when we did and you encouraged Auntie VI will miss you. Who will serve us a glass of wine with us to make sacrifices for our kids and get them to places we our grills? Who would humble themselves to clear the table have never been. We want to believe that even though you are after dinner when there are hired hands to do that. Who would no more with us the values and principles you stood for will give me that bear embrace and tease me about being petite by remain with us forever in our hearts. whispering into my ears?

Komla, we love you and will forever miss your beautiful smile Komla, you have left a void in all of our hearts that cannot be and the bear hugs you gave us whenever we met. Though we filled. Being big and strong on the outside but soft and caring mourn, we do not weep like those without hope, for the good on the inside. Lord knows why you have gone before us. We will therefore bid you farewell with the Christian’s good-night and will be strong Komla, rest in the bosom of the Almighty God. You have run for our nieces and nephew. Rest peacefully in the bosom of the well the race that was set before you and you will remain Lord till we meet again. always in the hearts of all your family, friends and millions of fans all around the globe. Dzidzor le nutifafa me. Till we meet again my dear son, REST IN PEACE!

22 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tribute By President John Dramani Mahama FOR THE FUNERAL OF THE LATE KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR

I believe I am right to state that no single Ghanaian has risen ple proof that perseverance pays! He made Ghanaians – and so fast, so far, and so favourably in international broadcasting non-Ghanaians – feel a deep sense of pride watching him on as Komla Dumor did. the BBC.

Komla Afeke Dumor proved himself to be a real trailblazer, a Komla grew into a giant who did not forget his roots among role model and a source of admiration, as well as inspiration, the so-called “little” people. He was a connector, who man- for millions around the world. aged through his work to link princes with paupers and got kings to speak to ordinary folks. His rise, from the back of a motorbike, serving as a traffic reporter for Ghana’s Joy-FM Radio, to the lofty heights of To many people, especially the youth, Komla represented a being one of the lead presenters of BBC TV and Radio in the contemporary example of the rewards that can follow hard UK, has been truly remarkable. Not only did Komla shatter the work, dedication and the pursuit of excellence. His successes professional ceiling at the BBC through his dedicated profes- and achievements are what our youth require in our quest to sional attitude, and thereby opened doors for many journal- lift our dear nation and indeed Africa onto a higher level of ists, broadcasters and professionals, but he also proved that socio-economic achievement. you can push yourself to excel so well in a local job that your Komla was a true son of Africa, who easily submerged his Gha- performance is easily recognised and deemed fit and best for naian identity into the unifying sea of gracious and common the world. humanity, so that millions around the world – Ghanaians and Komla’s unique style of broadcast presentation and his highly non-Ghanaians, Africans and non-Africans, Black or White - professional approach made him shine like a bright star within could claim him as one of their own. Indeed, Komla’s stature a galaxy. His confident manner, incisive questioning and transcended nationality, race and continents. We must thank disarming presence helped to take his ratings to admirable Almighty God for the gift of Komla. We thank Komla’s family heights. for allowing him to be shared with the whole world.

Komla leaves us with some true life lessons that, even when Even though he left us at the young age of 41, his legacy re- life gives you lemons, you can still find a humble and enduring mains worthy of emulation. way to turn these lemons into lemonade. Komla Dumor will not be easily forgotten. He suffered failure but did not allow failure to define him. We will celebrate his life, his achievements and his legacy. With a level of humility and gratitude, he recalled how he failed his medical school exams in the fourth year in Nigeria – where his professor dad was lecturing - and had to abandon his plans to become a doctor. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

“People expect you to be good, talented or hardworking - or dribble a football (which I can’t do), because our reputation precedes us,” Komla said. “When I flunked out of medical school in Nigeria one of my professors (a Nigerian) said to me in shock. ‘You’re not supposed to fail, man! You’re a Ghanaian!’ I guess I let the nation down that time.”

But he rose from the ashes of failure and disappointment, dusted himself off, and bounced back on a new road that made him a star achiever in the world of international broadcast journalism. He radiated hope and integrity and provided am-

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 23 Tributes from Around the World

Kofi Annan Pan-Africanism and African Renaissance. Komla is truly one of Africa’s brightest stars that just got extinguished. He will great- With Komla Dumor’s sudden and tragic death, Africa has lost ly be missed. one of its brightest young talents. Komla was an inspirational journalist, always determined to find the facts and report on the truth. I shall miss his smile and wonderful sense of humour. Carlos Lopes May his soul rest in peace. Executive Secretary, Economic Commission for Africa

I am very pained. Komla was exceptional and a good friend of Aliko Dangote the ECA.

My heartfelt condolence to the family of BBC’s Komla Dumor. Mr. Dumor had confirmed his role as a key facilitator at the A great African & an intelligent Presenter / Reporter. May his Seventh Joint AU Conference of Ministers of Economy and soul rest in peace. Finance and ECA Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to be held on 27 March to 1 April 2014 in Abuja, Nigeria on the theme, Industrializa- Bill and Melinda Gates tion for Sustainable and Inclusive Development in Africa.

Bill and I are saddened by the death of BBC’s Komla Dumor. Komla Dumor possessed boundless joy, energy and a big en- His work of bringing the stories of Africa to the rest of the thusiasm over Africa’s narrative; he left us so soon, said Lopes world will be missed. and added: He was a world class act who raised high Africa’s flag on the international stage and worked hard to shift the Mo Ibrahim one-sided narrative on Africa. Arguably Africa’s favorite BBC presenter, Mr. Dumor was a I just couldn’t believe it when I heard the news. It is most un- regular facilitator at ECA major events where his personality, timely. We have lost an invaluable African talent. brilliance and depth of understanding fired up debates on

Africa’s transformation.

Makaziwe Mandela Our prayers and thoughts are with the family, friends and col- (Nelson Mandela’s daughter) leagues that he left behind.

Here was truly a shining star of Africa…a beacon of Africa’s warm and sunshine. Komla was Africa in every essence. I think wherever Komla is now he is smiling because he left a mark on Dr. Eugene Owusu this world. I think he has joined other great spirits, my father… UN Resident Coordinator, UNDP Resident Representative & We should be glad that they came into our lives, even for a UN Humanitarian Coordinator, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia short while. Komla Dumor represented the finest in everything that is truly Ghanaian --- hardworking, intelligent, affable, a deep love for Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma his country, a passion for political discourse and social justice, African Union Commission Chairperson and entrepreneurial. With these attributes, his persona and sharp brains, his meteoric rise at BBC came as no surprise to Komla was evidently one of Africa’s finest broadcast journal- those of us who knew him well. Komla’s life and achievements ists. Whether with “Focus on Africa, or “Africa Business Report”, were an inspiration to many Ghanaians and Africans. Komla he treated burning continental issues with a light-hearted was a man destined for greatness. He left this world too soon flair, and yet a critical approach that incarnated a true spirit of for his dreams to come to fruition.

24 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tributes from Around the World

Our hearts are heavy with sadness and deep sorrow. Death Pravin Gordhan is always a painful loss, but some deaths are cruel! Death has South Africa’s Minister of Finance robbed us of a talent, a gentleman, a budding statesman, an exceptional human being, a patriot, a consummate profession- His insightful commitment to convey to the rest of the world al, a pan-Africanist, and a quintessential broadcaster. Death the heart of Africa was always noteworthy. I have valued and has robbed us of an illustrious son of Africa. Komla was a true appreciated the interaction I had with Komla over the years ‘Ambassador’ of Ghana and Africa to the World. and I will miss him..

Ombeni Sefue, Chimamanda Adichie Chief Secretary to Tanzania’s President Nigerian Author

For us Africans, we feel very proud when news about Africa are Komla swept into the world, stylish and sure, with his big conveyed by an African... and Mr Komla Dumor did an excel- chuckle, the light in his eyes, a genuine goodwill for people, a lent job. There is no doubt he got that job not because he was familiarity with laughter. He had no false modesty, yet an en- an African, but because he was highly qualified. Therefore he dearing insecurity lurked beneath his flair-filled confidence. He brought great honour to Africa... This is a great loss to us all in had, too, something close to innocence, a wonderful capacity Africa. Ombeni Sefue, Chief Secretary to Tanzania’s President. for wonder. And now he is gone. We have lost a star..

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 25 Tribute To Komla Dumor A YOUNG ACCOMPLISHED SOUL OSAGYEFUO AMOATIA OFORI PANIN, OKYENHENE

I join the Ghanaian people and the members of the journalist • Did he love his family? fraternity to commemorate the life of one of the greatest • young Africans of our time. Ghana has lost many of her heroes Did he utilise his talents, those gifts at birth, so endowed to but the demise of Komla Dumor represents a shocking waste him by his maker? of a patriotic and vibrant life which will be felt by the Ghanaian • Did he develop a burning desire that is required of all people and the African continent for many years to come. achievers?

My admiration for this young man developed out of his insis- • Did he stand up for the right of others against the undesir- tence on civil discourse and responsible commentary in the able influence of treats and enemies? media. • Did he forgive and forget those who may have harmed On a few occasions when sensitive matters on chieftaincy, him? environment, education and child care were put under the national radar, Komla Dumor, would humbly walk into my • Did he love his fellow human being with no regard to race, Adabraka Palace to seek counsel so as to inform and guide his creed, ethnicity etc? numerous audiences. • Did he share himself with others without expecting reward With time, recognition of our congruity of interest made our or payment in return…? relationship blossom and extended to his family. All will agree that the answers to the above will be in the affir- Times without number Professor Dumor and I spoke on issues mative. Komla did all that and more, the journey finally ends in of national interest. Heaven.

Komla’s professional progression to the BBC World Service On behalf of the Chiefs and people of Okyeman, and on my brought out the best qualities of his character, hard work, own behalf and my family, I wish to express my deepest con- courage, an indomitable will, rugged determination to succeed dolence to his wife, children and the remarkable Dumor family and a fiery ambition. (Dad, Mawuena, Korshie) for this irredeemable loss. Rest in perfect peace my dear Komla. On his maiden appearance on BBC World Service TV, I was prompted one evening by Professor Dumor to watch his darling son. The authority and grace Komla exuded, coupled with the richness of his voice were unmistakeable and enough to capture one’s immediate attention and my pride.

We sweat and labour to find our place, we take ourselves so seriously, over reacting to the insignificant events of each passing day. Then, finally, even for Komla, his brilliant short life will fade into history and his life will be summarised in 20-minute speeches and tributes, like mine, and a moment of silence. Sometimes you wonder if it is all worth it.

But when the moment comes as it has for Komla, what will be said about him?

• How will others describe his moments on earth?

• Did he give it his all?

26 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tributes From Speaker Of Parliament, Ministers And Other State Officials

Rt. Hon. Edward Doe Adjaho Hon. Mahama Ayariga Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana Minister for Information & Media Relations)

I am completely lost for words, indeed it is difficult to believe After hearing your voice on radio I first met you in Legon in the that Komla has passed on. Enough tributes have been paid you company of my junior who became your wife. We met again in and I share all the sentiments expressed about you Komla for Harvard and I have followed keenly your progress as a great the Forty-One years that you lived on earth. You are a good journalist. Your success has inspired many and it is a shock that man and no evil will happen to you even in death. What a loss you have departed so early. We will all miss you. of such an icon, may his soul rest in perfect peace until we meet again. Hon Benita Sena Okity-Duah Deputy Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection Hon. Marietta Brew Appiah-Opong Komla, am lost of words. It’s really a big loss to the family Attorney General and Minister of Justice and Ghana as a whole. Africa has lost a great son. Komla you will really be missed by many. “V Boot” as we always called A famous Poet said ‘when a great man dies he leaves a light ourselves. You will be missed. May your sweet soul rest in the behind that for years, that lights up the path of men’. Komla, bossom of the Most High God. Till we meet again. My brother no words can describe our sorrow at your early demise. We rest in peace. take solace in the fact that you have left a light behind that will be followed by all men and women who aspire to greatness. Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed Komla rest in perfect peace in the bossom of our Lord. Deputy Minister for Information and Media Relations

Hon. Dr. Omane- Boamah My brother why have you left us so early. Your death is a big Minister of Communications lost to many people across the globe. For some of us who know you in person, we can’t but feel angry with death for not A relatively short life (41yrs) Well lived! RIP Komla. sparing you with its cruel hands. You have indeed inspired me and many of my colleagues. You were not just a national icon Hon. Nana Oye Lithur but a global one. We will forever miss you but we wouldn’t Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection forget you in our prayers. My brother rest in peace.

What can we say? We have lost the trailblazer. We have lost a Hon. Felix Kwakye-Ofosu brother and friend who through his work at joy FM made hu- (Deputy Minister for Information and Media Relations) man rights and women rights issues topical [readable] issues. He helped us promote gender equality. Today, God has called Komla your untimely demise is an excruciating blow to the him to higher service and we say “thank you, Father”. Komla, nation, Africa and the world at large. You were a shinning rest in perfect peace. example of excellence, commitment, integrity and passion for your chosen profession. You strove on and touched the lives of Hon. Fiifi Kwetey so many in ways that are difficult to clearly outline. We mourn MP, Ketu South & Minister of State your passing but are comforted by our knowledge that you made your mark in this world within the limited time that you What a massive shock. What a tremendous loss to Aflao, Ketu had to live. May your gentle soul find solace in the Lord till we South, Ghana, Africa and the world. Gone so soon, nyebro. But meet again. there again, that might explain why you have experienced such a metoric rise and chalked such phenomenal feat so rapidly. Komla Demrifa Due! Rest in perfect peace nyebro. A life well lived. An inspiration to all.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 27 Tributes From More Tributes From Speaker Of Parliament, Ministers And Other State Ghanaian Political Leaders Officials

Hon. Samuel Okudzeto- Ablakwa Former President John Agyekum Kufuor Deputy Minister for Education, Ghana He was only 41 and looked so fit. It is unbelievable that such Great man, Great Accomplishments, Great Humility and Great a thing will happen to him now.I knew him and at a point I Dexterity. Ghana and Africa will forever be proud of him. asked him to serve on a board for the youth,He was a social person, always with a smile and quite polite to the society. A bright broadcaster with great promise but who has been cut Prosper Bani off midstream, Chief of Staff to the President Komla Dumor is one of the vibrant and illustrious sons of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo Ghana. He is an excellent professional whose experience goes I have heard with shock and dismay the disheartening news beyond Ghana. He is a stellar broadcaster without any compar- of the sudden death of Komla Dumor, the young BBC anchor- ison, he will be missed forever. May he rest in perfect peace man.

Komla has been a source of great pride and joy to all Gha- Vice Admiral Mathew Quashie naians as a hard working media practitioner who strove for Chief of Defence Staff, Ghana excellence in journalism. I recall his trailblazing radio morning Komla, a media icon of the highest professional standard, you show in our country. portrayed the values of Ghana and Africa to the admiration His very professional and diligent approach soon turned him and respect of the world over. May we all learn from your short into a role model for many young journalists in Ghana and life on earth and all the high ideas that you stood for. May your Africa. His sudden demise is a deep loss not just to media and gentle soul rest in Peace. journalism in Ghana but to Africa and the world. The world is certainly the poorer for his passing. Dr. Michael Kpessa Whyte Office of the President, Ghana He was somebody I was proud to call my friend. My wife, Re- becca, and I, and our children extend our deepest condolences Komla it is hard to believe that you’ve depart this world. You to his bereaved wife, Kwansema, and his children, Elinam, left too soon but we are consoled by the legacy of your life Elorm and Emefa Araba, to his father, Professor Dumor, and and work. You will always be remembered for your broad smile, the rest of the family, and pray for God’s protection for them strong and captivating voice and indeed for making Africa during these trying times. proud. Sad, sad, Sad. Fare thee well. Good bye till we all meet again. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

Dr. Tony Aidoo He will be sorely missed. Ambassador Designate Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia Komla you have gone too soon. It is a pleasure to have known and related to you. Definitely your life of dedication chesty It was with great sadness that I learnt about the passing of and humility will be an inspiration to the youth of Ghana and Komla Dumor. It is unbelievable. I kept hoping someone would Africa. Rest in Peace. come to say it was not true.

My thoughts go out to his family. This is so devastating for all of us but we can only imagine what his family is going through at the moment.

28 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR This life can be so cruel. Why do such good people die so Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom young? However, we cannot question God. He knows best. I am saddened this evening because of the terrible news, that William Shakespeare reminds us that “Life’s but a walking Komla Dumor the Ghanaian media professional who went shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the on to join BBC radio and television has died. I knew him as a stage, and then is heard no more”. respectful young man, a professional who sought continuously to improve his knowledge and skills and sought advice. Ghana has lost a great representative on the global media landscape who had already achieved so much in his young life. I liked him a lot because he was a family man who was proud Komla made every Ghanaian proud. The world has lost a kind of family and wanted good things and happiness for them. My human being. May his soul Rest In Perfect Peace. wife and I are so sorry to learn about his death. We pray to the Good Lord to give him a peaceful eternal rest. Dr. Abu Sakara

Ito came t me as a surprise and it was difficult to believe that the great broadcaster I saw just less than 24 hours on television is no more.

I wish to send my deepest condolence to the family of Late Komla Dumor, especially his wife and children. Also to the media in Ghana, Africa and the world at large. Indeed we have lost a great son of our land.

He focused on issues of importance and development to Ghana and Africa. He practiced journalism with decency and proved to the world that African journalists can also rise to the top.

Komla Dumor laid it all on the line in the pursuit of the common good. He gave the ultimate sacrifice, his life!

Such sacrifice for the common good is the single distinguishing feature that separates the great from the mediocre.

The late Komla Dumor was a great Journalist with full of promise. The echoes of his name have travelled the canyons of the world and back to await him in a silent grave. But the throb of our hearts will forever beat out a refrain in his memory….. Komla Damirifa Due, Rest in Perfect Peace.

Dr. Henry Lartey

Ghana has lost a true gem, he was a brilliant Journalist and a dynamic presenter. Komla made listening to radio and watching television a real joy. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 29 Tribute From Tribute From Kwasi Twum Stan Dogbe UNFORGETTABLE!!! EULOGY BY KWASI TWUM

Komla! Why, my brother, Komla!!

You were a special gift to us. I am still in shock.

Our JOY. Our shining star ... The last time I felt this way was that fateful and gloomy day in July 2012. Before that, it was December 09, a few years ago, Your charm. Your passion. Your selflessness. but that was better because even while I was in self-denial, I Your respect for humanity. Your unyielding integrity. prepared myself for the worse the night before, and I believe strongly it was same for my younger brother and my father. Your thoughtfulness. Your great stature. Komla had many friends and paddies, not to talk about the Your swag. Your infectious laughter. thousands of acquaintances he encountered as a result of his sterling work as a broadcaster. He was close to his family as A heart as big as yourself… well, but I had my own unique kind of relationship with him- a You loved us! relationship that went beyond being work colleagues.

You gave all of yourself to bring out the best in us. It was a difficult Saturday obviously, and apologies to all who called and texted without a response from me- I could not You filled us with great pride as you outclassed all on the just see myself as the bearer of such bad news at the time you global stage . were trying to make contact, and when the family had not officially made a statement.

Like that morning in early December when news of my mum’s You enriched our lives… collapse tore me apart and saw me driving and crying out My son. Our hero. on the Tema-Accra motorway, I left my location somewhere last Saturday and drove towards Accra asking myself many A very good man steps off stage. questions.

Now, we despair! When we lost the Prof, I walked from The Castle when I got the news, and walked all the way to the Ringway Estates, all Komla ! Komla!! Komla!!! confused and shattered. I felt worse on my drive to Accra last Silence!! Saturday.

Gone ... too too soon. Our last conversation on Friday was about an assignment he gave me the previous weekend and his excitement about Bra- But, you remain forever in our hearts... zil. Yes, Brazil and I said to him, “Komla, we go make am”.

Unforgettable! That is something I say often with him since the first time in about 2005 or so when our boss accused us of allegedly broadcasting falsehood about a government official, a claim we denied vehemently. Obviously I was not enthused but Dumor said, we should challenge him to strict proof. It turned out when the boss brought a CD allegedly recorded of the said programme and played it that it was just another lie against us.

That evening, I said to him, the weekend will be my last day at the station. He then said to me, I should not let my detractors

30 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR get the better part of me because whether they liked it or not, Oh Komla! Agyeiwaa! I be we know our things, Dumor! “we go make am.” Seyram is heartbroken, and alone in my study writing out this That advice, coming even before my GM rejected my resig- piece, I can only drench myself in tears. Thanks for everything nation letter and asked me to take it away, is just one of the you did for me, and I know you appreciated me for who I am. strong influences Komla had on me. One day, I will share our trials and why we dedicated ourselves to doing what we love to do with zeal. We shared one office and as the Operations Manager, he was my boss. He was however always quick to point out that I remember very well your closing plea when we last spoke. I when it comes to the Super Morning Show; I was his boss can only say, I will try my best to have it done. because I was the Executive Producer, and the Head of Talk Programmes. People had a lot to say about us, but we had the support of the GM and we really transformed and did things Stanislav Xoese Dogbe on that show.

One day after some colleagues tore into us while ‘cracking’ some bottles at a joint near the Elwak Stadium, Komla said to me, “Xoese (he pronounces it forcefully and as though there is an ‘i’ at the end), we don’t have to be friends to work together. See them just as colleagues, and keep the work relationship. They will be surprised when you do that.”

I remember the energy and effort we put into branding the show, the revolutionary round neck and golf shirts of different kinds we produced and shared with our listeners- the trips around to check out affiliate stations etc.

We talk about his work and my work, and about things that are very personal between us. When we last spoke about the assignment he gave me, we agreed that we would meet on Friday, this week.

And here we are, people sending me messages- Stan, take heart; Don’t be hard on yourself, Stan; Are you ok, Stan.

Why Dumor?

I put up a brave face throughout an event I had to attend Sat- urday night, but these messages brought home the reality that you were gone. It is the second time I have drenched myself in some activity after loosing a dear one, because I could not bring myself to join others in the family home.

This is devastating, Komla. A lot of things going through my mind now. Why now?

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 31 Tribute to Komla Afeke Dumor BY THE MULTIMEDIA GROUP

It was few minutes after 3pm and the JoyNews room was him) failed to send a link. He failed to call. It was a story about bubbling as usual. Even with a skeleton team on a Saturday, Komla but it was a story too hard to break. He probably never the newsroom was far from a funeral parlor. Real Madrid were found the strength to confirm it. We did get confirmation from in action and so too were Arsenal. The shouts were loud, the a family friend of Komla’s but we still could not break the story jeers thundering. Amidst the lively chaos, George Wiafe of the – we had to wait for the family confirmation of the death – that Joy Business News Desk, known for his calm demeanor quietly is the convention. called us into the production room. It was the most difficult two hours of our careers in journal- In our usual lightheartedness we remember asking him if the ism. We had the confirmation from an impeccable source, meeting with us was going to bring money. He was excep- social media was inundated with reports about the death, tionally quiet, even for George, so we followed him into the our phones were ringing ceaselessly with friends and family small cubicle. He turned and faced us saying, “Komla Dumor is members calling to find out if it was true. Praying against the reported dead but we are still confirming.” confirmation didn’t seem to be working - it had to be true. Komla was no more. We were grieving and yet had to craft the Minds instantly went blank. Jaws dropped. For several seconds story we were unwilling to broadcast. there was just silence. Could this be true? Could this possibly, even remotely, be true? As the calls came, so too did colleagues in other departments - flooding into the newsroom to find out if what they were We were all devastated, yet we clutched onto a faint hope hearing was true or just rumor but the atmosphere in the that the confirmation that we now sought would never come. newsroom did little to comfort those who held hopes that it Komla couldn’t be dead. No, he couldn’t. was just a distasteful hoax.

As journalists, when reports or even rumors of death break, our They had heard the news; read about it from several other call to duty is not to cry or mourn, as others will normally do. sources but Joy FM, where Komla was nurtured and groomed Even in grief, our job is to begin researching the background of for global success had not broken it. Its website, myjoyonline. the person and to begin writing the story - the story of death. com had not published it. Some prayed that JoyNews would How it happened? When it happened? Who was there when it never break the sad and unfortunate news, because if it did, it happened? Then we try to get confirmation from family sourc- would have sealed a heart wrenching piece of information so es before broadcast. It is the cruelest part of our job! early in the year.

But here we were, digging to write the story of death; not of At 5:30pm, Joy FM through George Wiafe and Elton John a distant politician or a distant celebrity but the story of the Brobbey broke its long, forced silence and announced the death of Komla Afeke Dumor, a colleague who was a role mod- death of their most beloved Komla Dumor. myjoyonline.com el to many and whose towering credentials remained indelible. published it almost simultaneously.

He was far away at the BBC but he always found space on my- Messages started pouring in. For the first time, colleagues who joyonline.com because he was always achieving great things. were with Komla Dumor in his days at Joy FM and who rattled He was loved so much by Multimedia’s Chief Executive, Kwasi the Queen’s language with such proficiency and extravagance Twum (KT) that he made it a hobby surfing the net to find if were groping for words to describe the man they so loved and there was anything about his darling boy. And when he found cherished. it, he would either call or send a link of that story and demand Doreen Andoh, host of the Cosmopolitan Mix, the show that that it be placed on myjoyonline.com and given all the promi- followed Komla’s Super Morning Show, remembered how she nence it deserved. used to swap witty jokes and slogans with the Boss Player.

On Saturday 18th January 2014, KT (as we affectionately call Matilda Asante Asiedu and Dzifa Bampoh could not be heard.

32 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR The Komla We Know BY FORMER JOY FM COLLEAGUES

Their low sweet voices had been subdued and taken over by Komla Afeke Dumor…………he meant something to us all… grief. To the taxi driver he was courteous and friendly, Charles Mensah, Samens, Stan Dogbe and Eugenia Appiah To the garbage man he was affable, were too overwhelmed to speak. To the Waakye seller he was comical, Kofi Ansah, Current Programmes Director could not find one word to describe Komla Dumor when he was asked to do. He To the Hausa Koko seller he was a ‘joker’ called him the “presenters’ presenter.” To the mechanic he was knowledgeable, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, usually witty, struggled for words. He mumbled all through the interview as he openly wept. To the security man he was ‘commander-in-chief’

And who would not grieve over the death of a 41-year-old To the janitor he was a kindred spirit, gem. A man with such promise, easily the most successful To the African he was breaking barriers, broadcast journalist Joy FM, Ghana and Africa have produced. We will all miss you dearly, Komla. To needy children he was a passionate & loving father with an endearing heart, In grief, our thoughts turn to those whose pain could only be more intense than ours. Your wife, Kwansema, your three love- To the Statesman he was a consummate professional in pur- ly kids Elinam, Emefa and Araba, your father Professor Ernest suit of excellence, Dumor and your siblings Mawuena and Korshi. To the Media he was a stylish professional, Rest in Perfect Peace, Komla Afeke Dumor!!!!!!!! There will never be another you! To the politician he was zealous & charismatic,

To his competitors he was resilient, with a remarkable sense of humour,

To his employers he was a selfless bundle of talent, with an invigorating personality

To his friends he was witty, loved life & would always ‘DU’ – ‘MOR’

And to his former colleagues from JOY FM he was simply………KOMLA!

“Some are bound to die young By dying young a person stays young in people’s memory. If he burns brightly before he dies, his brightness shines for all time “ —Unknown

Boss Player…xhe denyuie, nante yie…………….God be with you till we meet again

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 33 Tribute By Peter Horrocks DIRECTOR, BBC WORLD SERVICE

To understand the impact of Komla Dumor you need only look at After that Dutch royal wedding he wrote to an editor: “Folks here what happened after his devastating death. keep asking me if I’m the presenter who ‘takes his shirt off’. Live the story Boss.” The BBC’s audiences responded immediately in their tens of thousands, besieging us with their grief and their admiration for Komla I have heard from BBC people who are Afghan, Arab or Australian, and what he had achieved. many of whom never even met him, who have been in sorrow. How could that be? They just knew he was their guy and they Even greater of course was the impact on his BBC friends. I visited invested their hopes in him. Komla’s home the day after his loss to pay my respects to his widow and children, alongside colleagues from BBC Africa and his And we know that’s true of the BBC’s viewers too. There’s a telling close friends. We were all numbed. We all felt we had lost our big story from BBC audience research that when they polled viewers (very big) brother. The next day I organised an informal gathering in Hong Kong, Komla topped the list of presenters with one Chi- in a church right next to the BBC. Hundreds of colleagues came to nese man saying “he’s just like me”. share their shock and grieve together. Komla represented a universal humanity that is irrespective of skin Then we held a thanksgiving for Komla on Saturday Feb 1. It was colour, country of origin or faith. Komla stood for us all, in Africa in the magnificent St Martin in the Fields Church on the historic and in the world. Trafalgar Square, a cold but brightly sunny day. The best of Ghana and the UK came together, with many dignitaries and many My last story comes from the wonderful interviews Komla secured regular folk paying their heartfelt tributes – in eulogies, songs and with the family of the late Nelson Mandela. His producer tells the prayers. story

Then, only ten days ago, a further remarkable tribute. The Prince “Komla had built up a relationship with Ndaba, Madiba’s grandson, of Wales, visiting the new BBC headquarters, broke off his tour to after interviewing him at the London Olympics. He and Ndaba write his condolences in a book dedicated to Komla. I have pre- ended up having a late night whisky together at our hotel on the sented that condolence book and a photograph of Prince Charles Saturday after Mandela’s passing, and that’s when he received an to Professor Dumor. invitation to the house. We went there pushing our way past thousands of people who were there to pay their respects to Mandela. The extraordinary tributes that London, the BBC and the BBC’s Komla was stopped every 10 yards for photos, autographs, hugs global audience paid to Komla are powerful signs of the respect and handshakes. When we finally entered the Mandela home, we and love in which he was held. How was that emotion created? I came face to face with Graca Machel. He knelt down beside her think it was the genius of his great combination of a life enhancing and she pulled him towards her saying, “Thank you for everything personality with exceptional journalistic talent. you have done for Africa. We are so proud of you. You are like a son in this house.” Komla was overwhelmed and couldn’t believe When he joined the BBC Komla exploded onto the radio and the she knew who he was. TV screen. He became the personalisation of the BBC’s commitment to Africa with the show that was his - Focus on Africa on We had gone over the questions for the Mandela family thorough- BBC World News. He didn’t want to be pigeon-holed and always ly beforehand because - believe it or not - Komla was actually quite wanted to spread his wings, with some memorable assignments. nervous. But I don’t need to tell you what an amazing job he did. 2010 World Cup, British royal wedding, London Olympics, Dutch They loved him from the first question and were totally relaxed in royal wedding, Obama visit, Bill Clinton interview and, still to come his presence.” but tragically unrealised. Brazil world cup. In the best of broadcasting, personality and professional skill come He adored and celebrated his Africanness and Africa. But he was together. Komla was supremely gifted in both – a radiant human also an Africa journalist for the world, telling stories in a way that being with a razor sharp journalistic mind. He was an incompara- everyone can relate to, and lapping up the reaction he was getting ble star. And I will miss him deeply. around the globe.

34 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tribute From Tribute From Lyse Doucet Solomon Mugera CHIEF INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENT, BBC AFRICA EDITOR BBC

It firs met Komla Dumor in 2007 on a blazing hot day in the Komla Dumor was the face and the voice of Africa - a new Ghanaian capital, Accra. He still managed to sport a classy young, enterprising, internationally connected, ambitious Afri- three-piece suit. A gaggle of young Ghanaians tagged along ca, with a can-do attitude. after him. When I ran into one of them later, I asked, “Are you working with Komla?” “No,” he replied with the proudest of When pioneering the launch of Africa Business Report on BBC grins, “I am part of his entourage.” World News, he set out to challenge the stereotypical view of Africa. He was passionate about telling the story of how the Komla was a star from the start and, from that day, my broad- continent was changing, of rapid economic growth and tech- casting brother. He came to me for advice about working in the nological advances. BBC. I went to him to discuss stories about Africa, and more. He bounced off our television screens with his warmth and But he was not a praise-singer. He was determined to present winning smile. He kept our attention with the deep timbre of a balanced story, warts and all, and to show the human face his voice, and the questions of a keen curious mind. When you behind the headlines. met him in person, there was an enveloping bear hug to boot. Even as a number of African countries were being heralded Wherever I was in the world, just seeing him on the screen for being among the world’s fastest-growing economies, he never failed to bring a smile to my day, and to the days of wanted to dig deeper. many others. Hours before Komla died, I was writing an email For he knew that while in those countries a select few were to tease him about the stacks of mail waiting for him in our wining and dining in five-star hotels and driving the latest shared pigeonhole. There were letters from near and far from luxury cars, in the same neighbourhood there were families people who wanted him in their world. We were all part of his struggling to live on $1 (£0.60) a day. entourage – and still are. “There must be balance” or “Please, don’t patronise me,” he used to say.

Despite his towering figure, he never came across as intimidat- ing - unless you were a politician with something to hide, being interviewed by him.

He loved people, because he believed stories are about people: to tell a story well, you need to understand people.

But he didn’t see people in terms of mere contacts. He saw people as human beings and collaborators in a mission to tell the African story.

International broadcasters, including the BBC, have often been accused of being coy to promote black African talent but with Komla, the BBC got it right, as he smashed through internal and external barriers. BBC TV now boasts many African presenters and reporters.

In his short career, he changed so much.

He will be sorely missed.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 35 Tribute From Herbert Mensah

You were and are everything that most people are not!

Most people associate you with your incredible sense of humor, booming laugh and an extraordinary resonating voice. The ladies loved those bear hugs, the laugh and that smile. You always reserved the most special hugs for Elinam in particular and Elorm knows the spare-ribs were reserved for him. You gave everyone a little magic and a dream. Yes you did not suffer fools but you had a big heart made of gold, chocolate, sug- ar and all things nice! For me Boss, just hanging out and being real was special! Cooking for you, converting you to Kotoko, Arsenal, Saracens and sharing the values of my beloved rugby and cricket were as important as imagining what it would take to get our continent moving in the right direction

In the mid-morning of Saturday 18 January 2014 Komla left My Brother Komla us suddenly, his appointed time with the Almighty God had come. We were all deeply saddened by his untimely death, his Blessed is the man who dies pure, Cursed are the evil doers apparent good health left us surprised and made it particularly who survive! difficult to come to terms with his absence. Painful as his de- Komla to be associated with you as a Brother and a Friend, to parture has been, his presence in our lives for 41 years has left be someone who you could trust and depend on reveals more us with the memory of a person who was generous and warm about all your friends than you! You are known as our untaint- in spirit, for whom no obstacle was too high and no achieve- ed National land guard of probity, integrity, fearlessness and ment too small, a person who will always be remembered by seeker of equity and the truth. People who claim to be your those whose paths he crossed. Indeed everyone whom I have friends must be able to follow and stand by your side out of met spoke of his warmth, his smile, his kindness, his objectivity, the shadows. Yes anyone who is a friend of ours must be able integrity and Yes, Elinam, his awesome hugs! to take the heat! I paid a full tribute to him on the 2nd of February at the BBC’s We had a dream and we were a perfect team. Our principles organised memorial in St Martin-in-the-Fields. I thought he in life were the same and were born out of a deep-seated was great but then I thought I was biased because he was my desire to see equity and justice for all. You wore your heart on friend and kid brother. But since his death all manner of peo- your sleeve fearlessly and with integrity and a pride that no ple, many of whom had never met him, have said how much one could challenge! You hated mediocrity and the arrogance they admired him, how much they enjoyed his broadcasts, how of power. You hated excuses being given for ineptness and proud they were of him. Indeed since the 2nd of February I incompetence in public office because of being Ghanaian. You have even, in discussions with his wife Kwansema, noted that became global and Ghana’s Superstar! even she did not realise the true greatness of Komla!

As I think of you I received this quote and had to share – Komla, our Brother from different parents, you have rocked and shocked a nation both in life and in death! You repre- “Take away your protective layers and open your heart to reveal sented that beacon of life, which we all aspire to and few ever your beautiful soul. Through an open heart we can learn the art reach. That beacon was the light of truth, honesty, integrity, of being humble, compassionate, joyful, peaceful, creative, and fearlessness, selflessness, care for others and redemption for loving” many. It was based on a driven quest to succeed and derived from a sense of purpose harnessed by your belief in God!

36 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tribute From Herbert Mensah

Komla as I speak of you I must first try to explain who you are wanted to return to mother Ghana and take up the fight to get because you represent so much to so many in many different our country right, he spoke of the need to be able to look after ways with very few comprehending who you really are! Indeed his three beautiful children beforehand! in many ways, with the exception of your Father Professor Elinam, Elorm, and Araba, your father was a giant, a real life Ernest Dumor, Mawuena and Korshie, we are all by degree hero, who touched the World with his presence and special “late-comers”! We got to know and love you at various points charm. He was your hero who gave you special quality time of your life and you left indelible marks on us all as a result! and love! Kwansema I am not sure you realized until now what It is widely accepted throughout the world that “0koto nwo a superstar Komla was. Your husband was the ultimate seduc- anoma” explains who we are and therefore we have to appreci- er whom the whole world fell in love with and who you had ate the background and brilliance of your parents. Your Father, to share as he grew into the superstar who rubbed shoulders Professor Ernest Dumor and late Mother, Cecelia Dumor were with Presidents, Royalty, Beauty Queens and ordinary people stalwarts of principle, integrity and excellence. Their parents alike! Dad, Mawuena and Korshie, Komla became the dream are widely and rightly heralded for their greatness in the fields for a continent’s youth to aspire to and a barometer for those of Education and the Arts, in developing numerous schools in who are in power! Komla was Fearless, Principled, Determined, the Volta Region as well as in the composition of our National Ambitious but with Integrity…. Oh yes at times reckless too Anthem. Along with your sibling Mawuena and Korshie you are but then, I dare say, that comes with the territory! who you are because of your parents! I loved him for all of that and more and perhaps because like I emphasize this not only as a point of respect but also because me, he was also fallible! He was human! We both learnt to they handed down to you those very qualities which have question and continued questioning all things until we were evoked the global respect and love we all have for you! satisfied. I have said, and I repeat, that like Komla, I have been brought up to understand things rationally. My judgment on Professor Dumor, Sir, my first comments to you after Komla’s situations and events has always been based on logic and a passing was that the night before he had spoken about how faith that God decides all matters. It is however at times like his faith in God against all negative forces had constantly seen this when a pure soul, a younger brother and a friend is taken him climb the ladder of life. Komla was a man who was guided away at such a young and critical age that I am left question- fearlessly by his faith! Dad, Komla loved you more than you ing and confused. I am battling to understand why someone can imagine! so pure and so important to us all has been taken away! Young Mawuena, Komla sat with me for ten hours one day and six people have called to tell me that their “dream” has been taken hours 2 days later less than a week before he left us and he away. People who have lost faith in the “system” and who are spent five hours speaking about you … his love for his big sister looking over the horizon are traumatized by Komla’s depar- and his fears for her. He wondered whether you would be ture! I now realize that I can never hope to understand a trag- allowed to show excellence in the face of “haters” and whether edy so great and unnecessary as this…. And though my love you understood that not everyone wished Ghana well. Korshie, for God is unchallenged my faith is now being severely tested. I Komla was always so proud of you and boasted about your need to understand, beyond blind faith, why he has been taken achievements and commitments as a Doctor. He loved his kid away… I am struggling! brother! The quandary for us all lies in the suddenness of your depar- The greatest loves in Komla’s life were undoubtedly his three ture. As we all put together the jigsaw of your last few months, beautiful children. Elinam, Elorm and Araba. Dad loved you all days, hours and even minutes we still cannot fathom what more than anyone else on earth and now that he is in heaven could have happened and why our all-knowing God decided to I know he is smiling down on you. He planned for your future take you! and wanted only the best for you and even as he desperately You have succeeded in provoking a host of mixed and extreme

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 37 Tribute From Herbert Mensah

emotions with your departure My Brother and for me, it rep- smile and booming laugh are captivating all souls in heaven, as resents the biggest test of my faith to date! well as the fact that you have taken the lead and are waiting to welcome the rest of us. I say this because all signs show that you were well and strong! In the last few days we were all impressed with your new di- Komla, Kim sent me a quote by Henri Nouwen, which I feel I etary, work and rest regimen and I was particularly impressed, must use as I end … not only with your appearance but by the discipline you had shown in managing your busy lifestyle. You were at a party the “When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives night before and returned home by midnight and you were means the most to us, we often find that it is those who, well! Oh God let me understand what happened and why you instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather took away our Brother! to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of Your departure has left us feeling that we must have let you despair or confusion, who can stay with us in our hour of grief down. You sought love and perhaps did not appreciate the and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, extent to which you were loved. I am sorry if we let you down. not healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, We promise you now that your true friends stood for the same that is a friend who cares.” ideals and we will keep them unwaveringly. Komla may your soul rest in eternal peace with the Almighty I humbly would like to say these words about my friend, broth- God. Boss Playa you will never be forgotten. er, confidante and the all round wonderful person I have been privileged to know. He had a joyful soul, he was a courageous enquirer and a strong conversationalist, he was an ambitious WRONG is WRONG even if everyone is doing it. and insightful journalist, he was an unassuming role model, he was a child of Africa, a proud Ghanaian, he was a dutiful son, a RIGHT is RIGHT even if no one is doing it. faithful brother, a loving husband, a devoted father and a loyal friend. We shall all miss him – he was the matter that filled the space that we shall always remember and talk about.

Let us celebrate his life and thank God for having given us such a wonderful brother, father and friend. We will miss him dearly but we are truly blessed to have had the honour and pleasure of knowing him.

Elinam, Elorm and Araba you now have many Uncles and Aunties to give you special hugs and to spend time with. Dad in heaven will watch over you and we your Uncles and Aunts will always be here for you! Kwansema as you move on in life you will be loved or judged on how Komla’s children are brought up in his memory. I pray that as they carry his name they will always understand how much he loved them and everything he stood for!

Khalil Gibran said “Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.”

Komla, the pain we feel is only lightened in knowing that your

38 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tribute From University Of Ghana Alumni Association

The University of Ghana Alumni Association is drowned in shock and sorrow at the passing away of an honoured and dedicated Alumnus of the University Of Ghana, a proud son of Legon Hall, KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR. His passing away comes at a time when the Alumni Association in conjunction with the University of Ghana just celebrated its 65th Anniversary.

When the university was celebrating its 50th Anniversary, Komla was the MC for the Fund-Raising Dinner Dance which climaxed the activities for the celebrations. We’ve lost a great icon, a mentor and a gem. He was an inspiration to up and coming young journalists and represented Ghana on the global market.

As we mourn our Komla, we at the same time celebrate him as a shining example of what we, the University of Ghana Alumni Association, stand for. We urge all Alumni of the University to stand firmly with the family.

Our condolences go to Mrs. Kwansema Dumor, their children and indeed the people of Ghana on our great loss.

May the soul of the KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Rest in Perfect Peace. DAMIRIFA DUE! DUE NE AMANEHUNU!!

Issued on behalf of the University of Ghana Alumni.

Paa Kwesi Yankey

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 39 Tribute To Komla A. Dumor FROM HARVARD KENNEDY SCHOOL MPA CLASS OF 2003 AND THE HARVARD KENNEDY SCHOOL ALUMNI OF GHANA

July 2002 was a unique month for a group of future leaders in was at HKS, describes him as one who stood out from the society who enrolled in the Master in Public Policy degree pro- crowd “for his courage to ask tough questions, to hold others gram at the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS). The first arrivals accountable, to dig for the truth and then to tell the story in were students from developing countries in the Mason Fellows a way that enabled his listeners to connect, to challenge their Program, and they were joined by students from across the own assumptions, to gain new perspective.” US and the world in August 2002. The class of HKS MC/MPA 2003 is an amazing collection of accomplished professionals At HKS, Komla was a big presence on campus and many of in various fields in the public and private sectors, who formed a his classmates knew he would be successful in his career. We strong bond and built friendships that continue long after our were not surprised to learn he was recently named one of the graduation in 2003. 100 most influential Africans and we expected that one day, he would perhaps become president of Ghana. A member of this class was an amazing gentleman from Ghana named Komla Dumor. It did not take long for Komla to Komla was superlative in so many ways. In his talent and make his presence felt. Komla was a bright star - with his big grace. In his love for his family, for Ghana and for Africa. In his smile, he made people feel that he was really listening because unflinching loyalty to his friends. In his enjoyment of the good he wanted to hear their story and be a supportive friend. A things in life and his commitment to uphold what is right. Any towering figure, he was a gifted journalist who loved people. list would be pitifully incomplete. Komla always got the full story, and when a discussion became Komla had the amazing ability of bringing out the best in peo- too intense, he could break the ice with a smart remark and ple. His enthusiasm and determination were contagious. And open up space for laughter. He had the edge of a smart report- so was his laughter. He did everything with passion and made er and the heart of a community leader. that passion felt by all those around him. We still remember The director of the Mason Fellows Program at the time Komla his unique style of hugging people!!

40 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tribute From Peter Jones BRITISH HIGH COMMISSIONER

There are many stars in the Harvard community but Komla “I wanted to join Komla’s colleagues, family and friends in was one of the stars who was off the charts. Many of us fol- expressing deep sympathy and grief on his passing. The world lowed his career after the Kennedy school. He wrote thought- is a poorer place without him, and Ghana has lost a wonderful ful, mostly optimistic columns about business in Africa. More ambassador. May he rest in perfect peace.” importantly, he emerged as a trusted voice on radio and then became an internationally respected presenter for BBC TV, bringing a gravitas and a modern African perspective to his re- porting. Komla was determined to shift the focus and change the way the world talked about and portrayed Africa and he was ideally positioned to do so at the BBC. John F. Kennedy, after whom our school was named said, “If we cannot end now Tributes From our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity”. Komla held such strong beliefs. Ambassador Gene A. Cretz

You hear the words “larger than life” often these days to de- US AMBASSADOR TO GHANA scribe someone with an outsized personality. Komla definitely was larger than life and was a leading light and role model for Ghana and in a broader sense, the continent of Africa. He had so much more to do and no one expected this tragic ending “Komla’s loss is a loss for mankind. The United States gov- for this bright shining star. ernment and people join the Dumor family in morning the untimely death of a man who represented the best of Ghana Komla was laying the groundwork to return to Ghana one and humankind and was true to his profession. We have truly day and enter into a leadership position where he would help lost a human treasure”. transform the country to improve the welfare of his people. This wasn’t a pipe dream. He had planned well and was going to make it happen. Taking a cue from John F. Kennedy who said, “ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country,” Komla’s goal was to serve his country and see it grow into an advanced economy with a high standard of living for all.

In loving memory of our friend, we send to his family and to the people of Ghana our heartfelt sympathies. Today we say goodbye to our trusted friend and we know we will continue to miss his physical presence but we like to think that Komla’s spirit lives on – in our hearts, in the hallways and classrooms at Harvard Kennedy School, and in those faraway parts of the world where he left his mark.

With Profound Respect and Love,

The Harvard Kennedy School Class of 2003

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 41 Tribute From Tribute From Esther A. N. Cobbah & Christian Council Tsatsu Tsikata

Komla, The Christian Council mourns the sudden departure of Komla Dumor, a trail blazer in broadcasting in Ghana, who projected There are many conversations started and not concluded. Africa at the international level through his outstanding per- Numerous topics touched on and not exhausted. Issues raised formance at BBC. and not settled. Mr Dumor’s passion for excellence, objectivity and innovation Your pursuit of excellence, your deep rootedness and faith in is one that is worth celebrating and emulating by journalists. God, your Maker, always shone through. He was a symbol of inspiration and hope to many young peo- Your deep love for your children, their wellbeing and their ple in Africa. future was evident, non-negotiable. Rev. Kwabena Opuni- Frimpong You had such a passion about the development of your country, Ghana, as well as the continent of Africa. General Secretary of the Council

Your desire was to make the truth about Africa break through the barriers of ignorance and prejudice.

Komla, you kept us updated about your life and work and it gave us such pleasure to see you excel, to see how God was lifting you to new heights. We applauded. We encouraged you to remain on course – heading His leading.

Komla, the shock of your sudden departure has not left us and we remain deeply saddened.

Komla, the conversations will continue. Cyberspace, after all, is also part of God’s creation! In the cloud we will still store and retrieve our flow of messages - till we meet again.

Rest in Peace Komla.

42 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tribute From Tribute From AAG TUC

The news of the untimely passing of our beloved brother, The leadership and entire membership of the Trades Union friend of the Advertising industry, member of the media fra- Congress (TUC) expresses our deepest condolences to the ternity, key player in international media circles, true son of the Dumor family for their loss. soil and de facto Brand ambassador of Ghana, put us in a state The TUC also joins hearts with the Ghana Journalist Associ- of shock and left us with inconsolable grief. ation, the National Media Commission and the good people Notwithstanding the fact that Komla was not a member of the of Ghana to express our shock at the sudden death of Komla Advertising Association of Ghana (AAG), the industry bene- Dumor. fitted tremendously from his unique voice and impeccable Komla was one of the finest journalists at the BBC in current diction as he applied his talent to notable radio and television times; therefore his death is a big blow to Ghana, the BBC and commercials amongst other channels. the world. Komla exhibited a high sense of professionalism and diligence The Union prays that the Good Lord takes the family through in executing any project. His affable demeanor and warm per- these difficult times and bless them with His peace. sonality always allowed him to lend with all industry players.

On behalf of the entire membership of the Advertising Asso- ciation of Ghana (AAG), I would like to commiserate with the Dumor family as well as all colleagues and friends far and near, under these extremely difficult times. I pray that the good Lord sees you through it all and grants Komla perfect peace.

Mrs. Norkor A. Duah

(President, AAG. Vice President of the IAA)

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 43 Tribute From Tribute From Manasseh Azure Bernard Avle SENIOR BROADCAST JOURNALIST, JOY FM DIRECTOR OF NEWS PROGRAMMING, HOST OF CITI BREAKFAST SHOW, CITI FM, ACCRA.

Komla was one of those people who had genuine interest in Your sudden and shocking death has taken us through a my career. Despite his busy schedule, he had time to initiate maelstrom of emotions, a flood of questions and sober realiza- discussions with me on stories I was doing, notably GYEE- tions….about the transience of life, the pain of mortality and DA and the Korle-Bu investigations. He offered advice and the frailty of the human soul. suggested areas I could explore. He became like a caring elder But even in death, you shine my dear big brother. brother and I am missing him like a father. I mourn your passing, but I celebrate your passion

I regret your demise, but rejoice in your excellence

I weep at your secret pains, but bask in your trailblazing glory. Tribute From You were a man among men. Anas Aremeyaw Anas Love always...

Your little brother Bernard.

From your days as traffic reporter, running the Super Morning Show, bagging that GJA top prize and moving on to make history with the BBC, you showed us that fortune favours the bold. Your life defined luck more as a result of hard work; rather than a fluke. You were consistent in excellence.

As a friend, you never relented in our shared aim of keeping the flag of Ghana aloft in our engagement with international networks. You were always there to share ideas and compare notes as we engaged the world with our talents, to keep pushing the envelope and shaping our craft.

44 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tribute From Faisal Hassan CHAIRMAN & CEO, COPIA AGRIBUSINESS, USA.

It firs met Komla when we both arrived in Cambridge in July of 2002 to begin Mid-Career MPA Program. Walking into a room full of strangers, strangers who would over the course of a year become my family, Komla’s face radiated a beautiful genuine smile, a smile that said to all of us strangers, “I am your friend.” Somehow none of us doubted that his smile would one day be globally recognizable. None of us knew back then how quickly that was going to happen.

Like all of my classmates, I was drawn to Komla. Humor and laughter made us quick friends. He was funny, smart and ar- ticulate. His warm and easy manner made you instantly open up to him, people told him their secrets and we all shared with him our hopes and our dreams. Komla listened to everyone. God had made him a great listener. Sometimes he laughed at me but most of the time he laughed with me. He had a great laugh. He hugged us all. He had a great hug. He was a most generous spirit.

I remember early on when I visited him in the hospital in Boston when his daughter, Elinam, was born. Something had changed in him that day. He was smiling and beaming with pride, like all fathers do when their children are born, but there was something serious about him as well. He had found a new purpose in life and from that moment on his day began and ended with his three children. Everything he did he did for them. The man I met had become a Dad.

The last time I saw him on August 9th, 2013 in the hotel lobby in London, he was on his way to see his children. He said goodbye to me, hugged with one of his famous hugs, and smiled at me. I thought about how far we had come from those days at Cambridge. Everything had changed for us yet his smile, his laugh and his hug had been the constant that always anchored us back to the beginning all those years ago. Somehow it all seemed like it was yesterday.

All of us who were blessed to have known Komla, if we really listen, can still hear that laugh now.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 45 Tribute to Tribute by Komla Afeke Dumor Kim Elizabeth Bird BY AFI AMORO AND THE JANDEL FAMILY

“It is well with my soul” I learned of his death with a sense of panic… there were so many conversations we had promised to have, so many things 20 years of knowing you have passed so quickly albeit very we had promised to do, how was it possible that he was gone memorably. A young strapping lad entered our home and left so soon, we weren’t done being friends yet... Through endless an indelible mark in all our lives from my parents to every tears, inner turmoil and boundless grief I watched tributes worker in Jandel Ltd. Very respectful, very funny, very intelli- and read endless articles and comments. He was lauded by gent, very kind, very You! friends, colleagues and strangers and all I could say to those Komla this loss is personal o! Through our association in the who asked was that his onscreen presence wasn’t just a University of Ghana, through your asking me to critique your character he portrayed, he really was all that and more, warm, performances in the various roles you took up in the course of funny and deeply caring, a gentle giant of a man who wanted your work, I have been so so proud to be associated with you, to do better, to do more for himself, his children, his family, his little bro. country and for all those who crossed his path. But to me he was still just Komla, a man I respected, a dear and wonderful Why I was not in my office when you came to look for me twice friend I loved, whose communications never failed to make me in December, I don’t know...... smile. He will be deeply missed and because I still don’t know what to say, I’ve borrowed and paraphrased from a friend, who Thank you for enquiring about me daily through Facebook shared the words I needed: when I was ill despite your busy schedule and for helping us build a good brand in Jandel. “As the curtain closes on all I have attempted to do and be; I want you to look into my eyes and see how much you mat- You will forever be in our hearts tered. Rest in Perfect Peace Not what you looked like. Not what you did or, how much money you made.

Not even how talented you were.

I want you to look into the teary eyes of someone who loved you and see;

You mattered.”

46 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Tributes

Justice Lee Adoboe, Accra, Ghana Augustine Adams, Accra, Ghana

As a fellow Ghanaian I’m saddened to hear the death of Komla I remember his coverage at the world cup 2010. The time he Dumor. As a child growing up in Ghana I always listened to his took off his shirt to reveal the Ghanaian football team jersey shows on the local radio and when I moved to London I was he was putting on. He was a light indeed to many particularly honoured to have met him in person whilst at work. It’s very African journalists. He will be greatly missed for his tireless sad to hear this news today. My prayers are with his family. effort in journalism.

Maximus, London Anderson Chinorumba, Gaborone, Botswana

I first met Komla while we were both students at the Univer- Here was truly a shining star of Africa… a beacon of Africa’s sity of Ghana around 2000-2001. He was working at JOY FM warm and sunshine. Komla was Africa in every essence. I think while still studying at the time. He was affable, friendly and had wherever Komla is now he is smiling because he left a mark on a good sense of humour... He made a mark on radio journal- this world. I think he has joined other great spirits, my father… ism in Ghana, and was a great source of inspiration for many We should be glad that they came into our lives, even for a Ghanaian youth, especially, those who wanted to get into radio. short while. May his soul rest in peace.

Denise Sangster, San Francisco, California Emmanuel, New York City, USA I loved this enthusiastic and dedicated man. My heart goes It is a sad day today we have lost a talented journalist. I am still out to his family and friends in this tragic time. Hard to believe in shock. A true representation of Africa, strong, true gentle- I will not see his smiling face and down to earth assessments man, a go-getter. You will be missed Komla. of his home roots, Africa, again. A tragedy and one which I trust BBC will honour and respect to the best of their ability. Amongst all of the BBC’s many great and famous human Rickie Davies, Ghana assets, Komla Dumor’s name should today be irrevocably established. I never knew him personally but always looked forward to his posts on Facebook. My Facebook page will not be the same without him. Every Ghanaian loved him and we still do. Forever Jimbo, Pattaya, Thailand in our hearts. My sympathies to his wife, children and entire family. Life is really unpredictable. Rest in Peace I am in deep shock, hearing of the early death of Komla Dumor. He added a different aspect on the world’s developing stories, somehow making many, pleasant and more understandable, Benjamin Tetteh, Accra, Ghana even with sensitive subjects. He will be really be missed by the viewing audience. We have lost a truly dedicated and illustrious journalist... Working for the BBC, Komla was a delight to listen to; very knowledgeable and inquisitive at the same time. In his prime, Jack Wolstenholme, Kranevo, Bulgaria we have lost him painfully. Who will now speak for Africa as a true African? Komla has left a legacy in a media arena and a better understanding of Africans stories. He will be dearly miss by everyone.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR 47 Tributes

He was a true symbol of hope for those want to make change Abu Fuseini in people life through media. What a world so strange nd so impossible to restrain.If I could prevent death from stretching its icy hands at full length,I could have done so 4 you Komla.Oh what painful separa- David-Mayen, Juba, South Sudan tion?So now,old age,disease,accident or suicide are no longer Komla was the embodiment of the vibrancy and the strength prerequisites to death.Death is ,now like an armed robber or of the BBC’s relationship with the audience in Africa. In recent a guerrilla fighter lying ambush to unsuspecting souls.We years, Komla’s presence and expertise has been appreciated need a medical intelligence to be able to give a forecast of this even more widely, across the world and into the UK. It is hard mystery.So my role model is gone like that.Your command of to imagine the newsroom without him. the queens language,yr sonorous voice,yr beautiful physical structure and the dexterity with which you approached what loved to do best,made some of us ran after you every minute. until we meet again Komla,adieu brother.RIPP. Charamba Tafadzwa Lovejoy, South Africa

So sorry on the loss of Komla. I was priviledged to meet him here in South Africa when he covered the funeral of another Keylow Divine Adja great hero and the best humanitarian to have lived on this planet President Nelson Mandela. I believe they are together in Heroes have run marathons to save lives. heaven and president Nelson Mandela is asking why Komla de- Heroes have fought wars for good of peace. parted the world so early. Komla was one of the best jounalists from Africa to have lived and graced the big screen. He was an Heroes have gone where others fear to go. inspiration to us young people of Africa and the world at large. I and the rest of the world will greatly miss this great intelli- Heroes give their own lives so others may live. You have my gent, educated and very humbled African brother who tried by deepest Sympathy. all means to put Africa on the world map. May God guide you in this sad time.

Willscovia Inimah, Minneapolis, MN

Just sending my condolences to your family during this period. I have grown to know Komla in the last few month through social media and Focus on Africa….He did tell the African story well, that we will all miss. May God be with you during this time.

Bongani Nkwinika

A life so short, yet inspired the world. To explain how much Komla inspired me would be “a lie”. It is so much more than I can explain...May His Soul Rest in Peace.

48 CELEBRATION OF LIFE - KOMLA AFEKE DUMOR Online Tributes

“Heartbroken to hear Komla Dumor has died. The best of col- “For me it will always be his great, big bear hugs. They were leagues, a great journalist - he lit up every room he walked into.” spontaneous, from the heart, acts which captured his warmth and grounded humanity in a way that words never could. They were so — written by Stephen Sackur (BBC Reporter) tight that once I did actually think he might have cracked a rib!”

“Komla understood that you can love & celebrate Africa, & ask — Jessica McCallin, Journalist, World Service (BBC) tough questions about its present and future. We all needed what he was doing.” “You greeted me with a big smile when we first met in 2007 in BBC Nairobi office. Your laughter kept us going through night — written by Ros Atkins (BBC Presenter) shifts on the World Today. That’s how I will always remember you.”

“Dear friend and brother, you inspired and encouraged me, you — Huong Ly, Senior Broadcast journalist BBC World Service were a world-class journalist. May your family be comforted.” “All I can do is remember moments shared. We hadn’t known each — written by Rolake Akinkugbe (Head, Energy, Oil and Gas other long, but we forged a close friendship… He was a dear man Research, Ecobank) who had a passion for journalism. But his true passion was his

“Hoped news about Komla was a rumour. Met him in person a family…Rest peacefully, Komla. Chale x” few months ago. Uber-talented, funny and passionate about the — Melanie Ruiz, journalist, BBC Focus on Africa continent. Huge loss.” “Komla was an inspirational figure for so many on this continent — written by Ory Okolloh (Kenyan Lawyer & Activist) – a sharp, passionate, engaging, hugely influential journalist. We

“In a time of such inequity, strife, apathy, political uncertainty and miss him deeply.” betrayal of electorate in many countries, his genuine concern and — Andrew Harding, BBC passion for the affairs of the continent was ablaze. Komla Dumor was an African star on the ascendancy. I pray that even in death “It was the voice I heard first - a deep, treacly warm bass filled with he has awakened the same passion for the crucial issues that laughter and energy - as he walked into the studio. Miked up and affect our continent in many more people. Our prayers are with his joking with the floor manager he appeared - eyes twinkling behind family. Rest in peace.” his thick rimmed glasses - and dressed immaculately - as always - in a 3 piece suit with a pocket handkerchief. We shook hands, cracked — written by Dr. Ezanetor A Rawlings (Daughter of Jerry John jokes, and smiled at each other. What charisma he had. What a Rawlings) force of nature. What a star. “

“A warm, generous, larger than life person with an infectious — Tim Willcox, BBC laugh. Every new kid on the block has someone who reaches out to them, thank you for being one of those special people, Komla. “I didn’t know Komla well, I was just one of hundreds of BBC You brightened my early, lonely days at the BBC. Many thanks.” colleagues. But that’s the point about Komla – even under the greatest pressure, his composure and geniality never wavered, he — Yalda Hakam (BBC) carried on being a complete gentleman to everyone on the team,

“It was an honour to have known such a beautiful soul. I’ve been high or low, and left me with an enduring impression of a hap- robbed of an amazing friend, a mentor and my ‘Chale’. Johannes- py, dedicated man who made everyone around him happier. No burg will never be the same without you. Kufa awunamahloni - hyperbole: he was a rare man, and my thoughts are with his family death be not true.” and close friends.”

— Nomsa Maseko (BBC) — John Machin, Studio Manager (BBC)

“I’ll always remember his great smile, his huge love of life and how “The most natural communicator, the warmest human being. And he treated people he just met as if they had been friends for years. he didn’t even seem to have to try!” He’ll be greatly missed” — David Eades, BBC World News

— Rob Brown, Broadcast Journalist (BBC)