Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has paid tribute to renowned gospel musician Bernice Offei following her death at the age of 63.
In a heartfelt tribute, Afenyo-Markin described the late songstress as a significant figure in Ghana’s gospel music fraternity whose voice and music touched generations of listeners.
He said Bernice Offei was more than a musician, describing her as a woman whose songs became a source of faith, hope and comfort to many Ghanaians.
According to him, her music transcended entertainment, with songs such as Life, Hold On and Kaa She Gbeyei serving as powerful messages of faith and encouragement.
He noted that her 2007 album, Life, reflected the depth of her contribution to gospel music and earned her the Best Female Vocal Performance and Songwriter of the Year awards at the 2009 Ghana Music Awards.
Mr Afenyo-Markin also highlighted the late musician’s accomplishments beyond music, noting that she successfully combined her career as a professional banker with her passion for gospel music.
He further noted that she held an MPhil in Crop Science and an MSc in Information Technology, describing her achievements as evidence of a life marked by versatility and excellence.
Bernice Offei, he said, was also a devoted wife to Professor Samuel Kwame Offei, former Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, and a loving mother of two.
Mr Afenyo-Markin expressed his condolences to the bereaved family, friends and members of the gospel music fraternity.
He said although Bernice Offei is no longer physically present, her influence will continue through the music and messages she left behind.
“Our elders remind us that a good name outlives the body, and Bernice Offei’s name, and her lyrics, will be sung long after this generation.”
He added that her music would continue to provide comfort to people during difficult moments, particularly at funerals and vigils where Ghanaians gather to mourn loved ones.
“Her voice will keep ministering at the very funerals and vigils where Ghanaians gather to mourn, a fitting inheritance from a life spent easing others’ grief.”
On behalf of the Minority Caucus, Mr Afenyo-Markin extended his deepest condolences to Bernice Offei’s husband, children, friends and the wider gospel music community.
“On behalf of the Minority Caucus, I extend our deepest condolences to her husband, her children, her friends, the gospel music fraternity, and everyone who found comfort in her voice. Damirifa due. Rest well, songstress. Heaven’s choir has gained a seasoned voice” he added.
