The late Ghanaian playwright, Dr Mohammed Ben Abdallah, will be posthumously honoured for his outstanding contribution to theatre arts in Ghana and beyond at the next National Honours and Awards ceremony. This was announced by the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Ms Abla Dzifa Gomashie, during a tribute event at the National Theatre on Sunday.
Ms Gomashie expressed regret that the nation had not yet recognised Dr Abdallah, stating, “It is a shame that this nation has not honoured this icon that we have. But it is with great pleasure and joy that I announce to you that President Mahama has indicated that at the next awards for the nation’s heroes, Dr Abdallah will be honoured.”
She described the late playwright as a towering intellectual, master dramatist, and one of the most influential cultural thinkers of post-independence Ghana. According to her, Dr Abdallah brought clarity of purpose, commitment to truth, and an abiding love to every role he assumed in the creative arts, education, and political governance.
“His theatrical works were philosophical enquiries, political commentaries, and cultural testimonies. His theatre interrogated power, exposed injustice, and uplifted the human spirit,” Ms Gomashie stated. She added, “His light will continue to shine in Ghana’s classrooms, theatres, governance institutions, and in the hearts of our people.”
Dr Mohammed Ibn Chambers, a former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, commended Dr Abdallah for his contributions to educational reform, particularly the introduction of circular education in Islamic schools, also known as ‘Makaranta’. He urged the government to revisit such reforms to promote equity in the educational system.
Mr Latif Abubakar, Chief Executive of Globe Production and a playwright, paid tribute on behalf of the International Theatre Institute (ITI), stating, “Dr Mohammed Ben Abdallah represented the very essence of our mission of using theatre as a bridge of understanding and peace. His voice carried the same spirit of ITI and believed that theatre can help us see one another more deeply and act with compassion.”
The tribute event, organised by Dr Abdallah’s family in collaboration with the National Theatre, featured stage performances of some of his works, including Verdict of the Cobra and The Trial of Mallam Ilya. Distinguished guests included Dr Tabitha Harriet Bissi Deh, Head of the Department of Theatre Arts, Professor Kobby Mensah, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Development Company, and Professor Kofi Anyidoho.
Dr Abdallah passed away on September 19, 2025, at the age of 81 and was buried the following day in accordance with Islamic customs.
BY BENJAMIN ARCTON-
TETTEY
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