By Franice Tandoh
A wave of grief filled the National Theatre VIP Lounge on February 26, 2025, as Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, officially opened a book of condolence for the late Mawuli Semevo, a towering figure in Ghanaian theatre and film. The veteran actor, who tragically passed away on February 20 after sustaining injuries in a house fire, left behind a legacy that spanned over four decades, drawing loved ones, family, and admirers to honor his memory on this solemn day.
The ceremony, attended by Semevo’s family and close friends, marked the start of a week-long period for the public to pay their respects. The book of condolence, now open at the National Theatre, welcomes signatures from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering a space for the nation to celebrate a man whose roles in productions like YOLO and The Good Old Days: The Love of AA resonated deeply with audiences.
Madam Gomashie, a former actress herself, lent a personal touch to the event, her presence underscoring Semevo’s profound influence on Ghana’s creative arts. “I worked with Mawuli for many years before we were both employed to work at the national theater. We became like family, even when I resigned to move on and came back, it didn’t change how we felt towards each other and the conversations we had.” she said, her voice tinged with emotion. Her opening of the book was both a tribute and a signal of the government’s appreciation for his contributions.
Rev. Christian B. Ocloo, head of the Semevo family, spoke to those gathered, thanking them for their support since the actor’s passing. “We are heartbroken, but we find strength in knowing how much he was loved,” he said. He directed those seeking more details to contact Emelia, a family member, at 0559375330, as plans for Semevo’s final farewell take shape.
The 66-year-old actor’s death followed a harrowing two-week battle with second-degree burns sustained in a fire at his home on February 7. Suspected to have been sparked by an electrical fault, the blaze left Semevo with injuries covering over 40% of his body. Despite medical efforts and community fundraising led by groups like Beyond Burns International, he passed away at Ridge Hospital, leaving a void in Ghana’s entertainment world.
As mourners filed into the VIP Lounge, memories of Semevo’s wit, humility, and mentorship echoed through their tributes. For many, the book of condolence is more than a formality. It’s a chance to say goodbye to a legend whose work defined generations. The National Theatre, a fitting stage for this farewell, stands as a testament to his lifelong devotion to the arts.
