Kumasi residents are calling on the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) and the government to join hands to honor the late legendary gospel musician, Yaw Sarpong.

The founder of the Asomafo gospel group passed away on January 20, 2026, at the age of 66, in Kumasi.

Yaw Sarpong and fellow musician Maame Tiwa, a key pillar of Asomafo music who died on December 7, 2025, had been receiving treatment at New Jerusalem Church at Sokoben Ampeyoo in the Atwima Kwanwoma District.

Adom News visited the community and the church to gather reactions after the news broke, since Yaw Sarpong had spent time with them.

Residents and church members close to Yaw Sarpong and Maame Tiwah broke down in tears during an interview.

They described it as "very sad" to lose two prominent musicians within months, recalling the duo's contributions to their spiritual growth.

"It was Yaw Sarpong and Maame Tiwa who encouraged us to keep singing and praising God, even when we weren't strong," said a church member, fighting back tears. "It's very sad to lose these two renowned musicians in a few months," another church member said. 

It was also confirmed that Yaw Sarpong's family took him away from the church after Maame Tiwah's passing and he was no longer with the church community.

The church's leadership is awaiting official confirmation from Yaw Sarpong's family before breaking their silence.

Residents and traders around the church have expressed deep condolences to the family of the late gospel musician.

They are urging MUSIGA and the government to ensure Yaw Sarpong's legacy lives on.

"We need something to remember these legends by," said Maame Elizabeth, a trader who often served Yaw Sarpong and Maame Tiwa. "A statue or a book about their lives and contributions would be great. Our unborn babies should know who they were."

Other traders echoed her sentiments.

"It's painful to hear this news. They were kind people, always buying from us," said one. A resident added, "Yaw Sarpong's been ill for too long; I think it's time for him to rest."