The late Madam 'Labianca' (2nd Left), Kate Opoku Acheampong(middle) and Comfort Asumadu (extreme R)
One of the most notable transformations in Ghana's funeral industry in recent years is the shift from solemn and modest ceremonies to more unconventional approaches.
In this modern era, Ghana has witnessed some innovative and extravagant means of hosting funerals that some people are still grappling with.
From changing venues and utilizing event halls to incorporating lavish all-purpose decor, live streams, themed custom coffins, and even funeral after-parties, there has been a complete evolution in this industry.
These extravagant displays of mourning are not affordable for everyone, and organising such luxurious burials often aims to celebrate the deceased.
While some view this as necessary, others argue it is a waste of resources, as the deceased cannot take any of their wealth with them.
The funeral tourism effect
Meanwhile, "Funeral tourism," an initiative by Ghana's current tourism ministry, has attracted international attention to the evolution of plush funerals in the country.
Ghana has earned a reputation for investing heavily in elaborate funerals, treating them as major events.
This trend has also spurred competition among the affluent, who are eager to showcase their wealth by sending their loved ones off in grand style.
Let’s take a look at some opulent funerals that turned heads in 2024
Labianca’s funeral
Attended by President Addo-Dankwa Akufo-Addo and numerous other high-profile personalities, the funeral of Mrs. Eunice Jacqueline Buah Asomah-Hinneh, popularly known as “Labianca,” has been touted as one of the biggest in the country so far in 2024.
Held at the forecourt of the State House, every tiniest of detail radiated class and opulence.
The deceased, a former member of the governing New Patriotic Party and a member of the Council of State was laid to rest on September 15, 2024, after passing away in June.
This was the funeral that was climaxed with a 'rock and roll' after-party.
The funeral of Madam Comfort Asumadu, wife of prominent businessman Alex Nkrumah, was one of the most talked about on social media.
Photos from the ceremony that went viral, highlighted the elegant decor, esteemed dignitaries, and opulent setting, generating buzz on social media.
A lavish dinner was arranged after the burial and was followed by a club-like atmosphere filled with jams.
Notable attendees included Dr. Osei Kwame Despite, Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong, and Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, as well as actors and socialites like Vivian Jill and Akua Amoakowaa, who gathered to pay their respects.
@capturedbyguyhector The Dinner Held in Memory of Obaa Connie as her children and sympathizers gathered to pay their last respects
♬ Funeral Music - Bobby Cole
This be funeral o, funeral. If them no tell you, you never go know. pic.twitter.com/tVkUNoXnfK
— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) August 20, 2024
Dr. Osei Kwame Despite’s mother-in-law's funeral
A helicopter transporting the hearse, a gold-plated coffin, and an extravagant after-party made the funeral of Mrs. Kate Opoku-Acheampong one of the most talked-about events on social media recently.
The mother of Dr. Kwame Osei Kwame Despite's wife, Mrs. Opoku-Acheampong's funeral, was characterised by a series of interesting moments.
Social media buzzed as the deceased’s body was flown by helicopter from Accra to Mampongten in the Ashanti Region for the final rites.
It is a widespread observation that no event associated with Despite is complete without a display of luxury cars, and this funeral was no exception.
The business mogul and his friends showcased a long convoy of opulent vehicles throughout the funeral.
During the procession to the cemetery, attendees were captivated by the sight of a gold-plated coffin carrying the deceased.
The event culminated in an all-night after-party that added to the lavishness of the occasion.
The late Kate Opoku-Acheampong was laid to rest on Thursday, October 10, 2024, in her hometown, Mampongten in the Ashanti region.
A second batch of the funeral was held in Accra on Saturday, October 12, 2024.
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