Thousands Gather at Independence Square for Candlelight Vigil Honouring Daddy Lumba

A wave of emotion swept through Independence Square on the night of August 2, 2025, as thousands of Ghanaians came together to honour the life and legacy of beloved music icon Charles Kwadwo Fosu—widely known as Daddy Lumba.

The candlelight vigil, held under the open sky, served as a moving tribute to the late legend, whose music has shaped Ghana’s cultural landscape for decades. The evening was marked by reflection, remembrance, and celebration of an artist who touched the hearts of generations.

Daddy Lumba passed away in the early hours of July 26 at The Bank Hospital in Cantonments, Accra, after battling a long-term, undisclosed illness for over fifteen years.

Clad in black and holding flickering candles, mourners filled the square with reverence and emotion. His iconic songs echoed across the venue as the crowd sang along to melodies that have become the soundtrack of Ghanaian life—songs of love, heartbreak, resilience, and hope.

The vigil featured heartfelt tributes, poetry readings, choral music, and live performances, creating a powerful tapestry of sound and sentiment in his honour. For many, it was not just a moment to grieve but an opportunity to celebrate a man whose music resonated with the soul of the nation.

As memories and personal stories were shared, the collective grief was palpable—but so too was the deep gratitude for a musical legacy that continues to inspire. Daddy Lumba’s work transcended generations and genres, speaking to the everyday experiences of Ghanaians with authenticity and grace.

The vigil is part of a broader series of commemorative events planned to honour the singer’s enduring impact. With a catalog of over 200 songs, Daddy Lumba’s artistry not only entertained but captured the spirit of a people—earning him a place as one of Ghana’s most treasured cultural figures.

His voice may be silent, but his music lives on—an everlasting tribute to a life devoted to song.