The gospel music community came together in a solemn gathering to bid a final farewell to one of its brightest stars, Kofi Owusu Dua-Anto, widely known as KODA. The beloved musician and producer was laid to rest in an emotional service held at the Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC) in Accra.
KODA’s burial service attracted not only family members and close friends but also a wide array of gospel artists who had shared the stage, studio, and spiritual journey with him throughout his illustrious career.
The service was a fitting tribute to a man whose contributions to gospel music had touched the lives of many. Over the years, KODA became a household name in Ghana’s gospel scene, known for his exceptional musical talent, powerful worship songs, and deep passion for spreading the message of God through music. His untimely death left a void in the hearts of his family, fans, and the entire gospel music fraternity, and this final gathering to honor his memory brought together those who had admired him both personally and professionally.
As mourners filled the KICC auditorium, there was a sense of reverence and reflection. KODA’s life and work were celebrated through heartfelt tributes, testimonies, and worship songs that filled the air with a mixture of sorrow and gratitude. It was clear that KODA had left an indelible mark on the lives of those who had known him, and his legacy as a gifted musician and dedicated servant of God was honored in every aspect of the service.
The gospel music industry was well-represented, with several notable figures in attendance to pay their respects. Among them were gospel stars Joe Mettle, Nii Okai, and Eugene Zuta, who were visibly moved by the proceedings. For many of these artists, KODA had not only been a colleague but a mentor and a friend. His willingness to collaborate and support fellow musicians endeared him to many within the gospel community, and his influence extended far beyond his own music.
Joe Mettle, a renowned gospel artist and friend of KODA, shared an emotional tribute during the service. He spoke of KODA’s unwavering commitment to the gospel music ministry and his ability to inspire others with his music. Mettle, who had worked with KODA on several projects, described him as a man of deep faith and a musician whose heart was always in tune with God’s purpose. “KODA was more than just a musician; he was a vessel of God’s love and power. His music brought healing, hope, and joy to so many, and I am grateful to have known him and served alongside him in the ministry,” Mettle said.
Nii Okai, another prominent figure in the gospel music scene, echoed these sentiments. He praised KODA for his humility, dedication, and love for the gospel. “KODA’s contribution to gospel music in Ghana cannot be overstated,” Okai remarked. “He was a man of incredible talent, but more than that, he was a man of integrity and faith. His music touched lives, and his legacy will continue to live on through the countless songs he produced and the people he mentored.”
Eugene Zuta, a long-time collaborator and close friend of KODA, also took the opportunity to reflect on the many years they had spent working together. Zuta recalled the numerous hours spent in the studio with KODA, creating music that would go on to bless countless people. “KODA had a unique gift,” Zuta said. “He had the ability to bring people together through music, and he was always focused on using his gifts to glorify God. He will be sorely missed, but his music and his impact will remain with us forever.”
Family members of KODA also took the stage to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they had received since his passing. They shared personal stories of KODA’s life outside of the public eye, speaking of his kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith in God. His wife, in particular, delivered a moving tribute, thanking everyone who had supported them through the difficult time and highlighting KODA’s deep love for his family.
The service was not only a time of mourning but also a celebration of KODA’s life and legacy. His music was played throughout the event, reminding everyone present of the powerful worship and praise songs that had made him a beloved figure in gospel music. Songs like “Nkwa Abodoo,” “Hosanna,” and “Made a Way” were among the favorites played during the service, filling the auditorium with the same spirit of worship that KODA had always sought to evoke through his music.
As the burial service drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of loss but also a strong feeling of hope. For those who had gathered, KODA’s life was a testament to the power of faith, music, and community. Though his earthly journey had come to an end, his spiritual impact would continue to resonate in the hearts of those who had been touched by his ministry.
KODA’s passing serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life but also of the enduring power of music to uplift, heal, and inspire. His legacy as a musician, producer, and servant of God will continue to inspire future generations of gospel musicians. As friends, family, and colleagues bid him farewell, they carried with them the memory of a man whose life was dedicated to glorifying God and bringing people closer to Him through the universal language of music.
