Elder Nielsen Meets with Traditional Leaders to Mourn the Late Paramount Queen Mother of the Ga State, Accra Ghana

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On 11 August 2023, Elder S. Gifford Nielsen, General Authority Seventy and President of the Africa West Area of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints met with traditional leaders from the Ga State in Ghana to mourn the late Queen Mother Naa Dedei Omaedru lll.  The late Paramount Queen of the Ga State died on 26 December 2022, at age 88 after serving for 59 years. 

The condolence ceremony was held at the Ga Mantse Palace in Accra Ghana. Elder Nielsen was welcomed by Justice Julia Sarkodie-Mensah, the Chief of Staff for the Ga Mantse.  He also had the honor of being greeted by the Abolah Mantse, Ahene Nunoo III, and by the Queen Mother of the Sukura, Naa Ablade II, the Sukura Manye.  Also attending were several traditional leaders and members of the late Queen Mother’s family.  

Accompanying Elder Nielsen was James Owusu Ansah, Church Communications Director in the Africa West Area, and other Church leaders. 

“It is difficult to imagine all the great things that the Queen Mother has accomplished.  She was a leader devoted to her people and the people of Ghana,” Elder Nielsen shared with the gathering.  “We are humbled by the opportunity to honor her with you today.”

During his visit, Elder Nielsen signed the Book of Condolences honoring the Queen Mother, surrounded by traditional leaders and her family. In addition to signing the book, the Church made a donation, and provided items to support the preparations for the final funeral rites of the late Queen Mother.

The Queen Mother served the Ga people since she was 29 years old.  She was the longest serving queen for the Ga state.  During her reign, Naa Dedei Omaedru III selflessly devoted her life to public service and volunteer efforts. “She championed important issues critical to peace, education, and opportunities for young people, especially the girl-child,” said Sylvester Jude Kpako Parker Allotey, Chief of Protocol and Communications for the Ga Traditional Council.

She promoted peace and unity, not only among the Ga people, but for all Ghanaians.  She advocated for a united approach to the meaningful development and growth. She was revered throughout Ghana and the Africa West area.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has worked closely with the Ga people on educational and health projects in Accra.  Recently the Church, in conjunction with the Ga Mantse Education Committee, began renovation and new construction at the Mantse Tacki Tawiah Primary School.  

In his remarks, Elder Nielsen shared his love for the Ga people.  “We are no longer just associates or friends, you are part of our family,” he said and added, “we have done so many good things together, and will continue to do so.  We are united in our desire for a better future for all Ghanaians.”