Ghanaian highlife musician, Amandzeba has said the funeral of the late A.B. Crentsil which was held on Saturday, November 5, 2022, should have been organised to attract tourists.
He told Citi News that he wished the funeral was put together in a way that would attract people from outside the country to visit Ghana, not to only attend the funeral but to experience highlife music.
According to him, even though the Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture is doing well, it should broaden its scope.
“This [funeral] should have been a tourist attraction. You know why? This man [AB Crentsil] cuts across the entire West Africa. So invitations should have even gone to musician unions across West Africa that an iconic figure has fallen because most people across the continent know him. People should be trouping in here,” he noted.
“I know the tourism minister is a very dynamic person, and he’s doing well, but I think he should be listening more to the ground than officials,” he said.
Amandzeba said other countries have vibrant festivals that promote music; something that should be replicated in Ghana.
AB Crentsil’s funeral should have been a tourist attraction – Amandzeba
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Present among the personalities was Former President John Drama Mahama who commiserated with the family and stakeholders of the music industry for the loss of their illustrious son.
He also shared his fondest memory of AB Crentsil, recounting his popular ‘Atia’ experience at Bolgatanga.
Other dignitaries who attended the funeral, include the Deputy Minister of Tourism Arts and Culture, Mark Okraku Mantey, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan John Kyerematen (Alan Cash) and former Chief of Staff Julius Debrah.
Musicians like Sarkodie, Keche Andrew, Kuami Eugene, Smart Nkansah, Empress Gifty, Diana Hopeson, Asabea Cropper, Donzy also attended the funeral.
Others were Fred Kyei Mensah, Nana Fynn, Tagoe Sisters, D-Cryme, Amandzeba, Charles Amoah, Akwaboah Snr, Obuoba JA Adofo, and Pat Thomas, among others.
Listen to Amandzeba’s full interview in the video below:
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By: Kwame Dadzie | Ghana Weekend
