In memory of grandma Ama Ata Aidoo, a literary soul, Whose words ignited minds and made spirits whole, We gather here to celebrate a life well lived, An extraordinary woman who constantly strived. Through ink and paper, her stories unfurled, A voice so powerful, it shook the world, With pen in hand, she wove tales profound, Her narratives echoing truths all around. From "Changes" to "Our Sister Killjoy", She laid bare the struggles that could destroy, But also the resilience that could ignite, A fire within hearts, burning bright. She championed African voices, fierce and strong, A poet, playwright, and novelist, she belonged, To a lineage of storytellers who dared to speak, To challenge conventions and push the weak. Her words were a balm for those who wept, A salve for wounds too deep to forget, She illuminated the shadows, gave them light, And in her presence, darkness took its flight. With every sentence, she painted vivid scenes, Her prose danced on pages, vibrant and keen, Her characters breathed, they laughed and cried, As we journeyed with them, side by side. grandma Ama Ata Aidoo, your legacy will endure, Through generations, your words will ensure, That the world remembers your vibrant art, And the indomitable spirit that set you apart. Though you have left this earthly plane, Your essence remains, it will never wane, Your stories will live on, forever told, In the hearts of those whose lives you've consoled. Rest now, dear grandma Ama, in eternal peace, Your words will continue to inspire and release, We bid you farewell, with gratitude and love, A literary giant, now watching from above.
A great honor for one of the foremost African writers and original thinkers. A woman who ranks up there with Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, Ayikwei Armah and others. She is a true African in every sense and a trailblazer in promoting African culture, human rights and the dignity of African people. She is truly deserving of the honor. 🙏🏽