Accra: Before his passing, the Late Nana Kwasi Gyan-Apenteng, the Apagyahene of Akyem Ati Amanfrom, achieved another scholarly breakthrough by completing the manuscripts of his autobiography, leaving a lasting legacy as an accomplished writer. His family honored his wishes by submitting the manuscripts for publication ahead of his burial, cementing his status as a celebrated journalist, author, and chief.
According to Ghana News Agency, the launch of 'What I Choose to Remember' at the GNAT Hall was a mixture of celebration and sombre reflection, attended by family, friends, and dignitaries. The Okyehene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, who is also the Overlord of Nana Gyan-Apenteng, launched the book in his memory during a vigil in Accra. The 22-chapter book uses humor and storytelling to take readers through the author's life, from his childhood to his adult years, and his experiences abroad. It offers insights into his upbringing and how it influenced his journey through student activism, journalism, and political advocacy.
Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin praised Nana Gyan-Apenteng for his character and dedication to humanity's welfare over material wealth. He highlighted their intellectual discussions on national issues, emphasizing decentralization as a key development tool. 'Our country deserves better and Kwasi wants us to do better,' the Okyehene remarked.
In his review, Nana K.A. Busia, Associate Professor and Research Fellow at the University of London, commended the author for using the media as a tool for social change and progressive ideas. The book offers primary data on key historical events and is recommended for students of politics, sociology, and international affairs. 'For Kwasi, writing and journalism was a means to executing the fight against the status quo, for social justice,' Nana Busia noted.
Ambassador Kabral Blay-Amihere, former Chairman of the National Media Commission (NMC), discussed constitutional reforms proposed by the late Nana Gyan-Apenteng to improve the NMC's operations, including reducing the number of commissioners from 18 to 9 for full-time work.
Dr. Nana Charles Sifa Twum, Acting Board Chair of the Ghana News Agency, paid tribute to Nana Gyan-Apenteng for completing his autobiography before his demise. He described him as a man who fought for his country and spoke against societal ills without fear. 'For us in the media space, what we need to do is to continue where he left off. We need to talk about devices in society; we need to fight by our voices, and I think when we do these things, posterity will judge us,' Dr. Twum stated.
Nana Gyan-Apenteng, a former NMC Chairman, passed away at 74 in May this year in London, United Kingdom, while seeking medical treatment. His funeral arrangements announced by his family indicate he will be buried on October 4th, 2025, at Tafo Ati in the Eastern Region.