Prof. Atukwei Okai
Renowned Ghanaian poet, scholar, cultural activist and author, Prof. Atukwei Okai, has died in Accra at age 77.
According to family sources, he passed away at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital on Friday following a short illness.
Until his death Prof. Atukwei Okai was the Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers Association of Ghana.
Prof. Atukwei Okai won a great number of honours both locally and internationally during his illustrious career, and was awarded the national award of Member of the Order of the Volta in June 2007.
He was survived by his wife, Beatrice, and five daughters.
A statement issued by Prof. Akilagpa Sawyerr on behalf of the Odoi and Okai families confirmed Prof. Atukwei Okai died at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra on Friday.
The statement said: “The Odoi and Okai families of Asere, Ga Mashie in Greater Accra Region and the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) announce with regret the passing of Prof. Atukwei Okai, which sad event occurred today July 13, 2018, after a short illness.”
“Prof. Okai was a national icon, a former Government Minister and Secretary General of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA). He died at age 77 and was survived by his wife, Mrs Beatrice Okai, and five daughters. Funeral arrangements will be announced later. May his soul rest in peace”.