The Creative Arts Agency (CAA) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of celebrated Ghanaian contemporary visual artist Madam Sharon Dede Padiki, popularly known as PADIKI, describing her as an extraordinary creative whose contributions significantly elevated Ghana’s arts industry on the global stage.

In a statement issued on July 9, 2026, the Agency said it received the news of PADIKI’s death with deep sadness, noting that she was one of Ghana’s most celebrated visual artists, the founder and CEO of Padiki Art Gallery, and a Guinness World Records holder.

The CAA praised PADIKI as a passionate advocate for Ghanaian culture, environmental sustainability, and the promotion of African art worldwide. According to the Agency, her exceptional talent, dedication and unwavering passion brought pride to Ghana while inspiring countless artists across the world.

The statement highlighted that PADIKI’s artistic journey was defined by resilience, innovation and excellence. Through her groundbreaking works and record-breaking achievements, she demonstrated that Ghanaian creativity knows no boundaries. Her commitment to pushing the frontiers of artistic expression earned her international recognition and firmly placed Ghana on the global creative map.

Beyond her personal accomplishments, the Agency described PADIKI as an active and committed member of Ghana’s creative ecosystem. It said she generously shared her knowledge, mentored emerging artists, collaborated with fellow creatives and consistently championed the growth and development of the country’s arts industry.

According to the CAA, PADIKI’s legacy extends far beyond her masterpieces, living on through the many lives she touched and the creative movement she helped shape.

The Agency further celebrated her life as one devoted to artistic excellence, cultural expression and national pride, adding that her contributions enriched Ghana’s creative landscape and will continue to inspire generations of artists, innovators and dreamers.

On behalf of its Governing Board, Management and Staff, the Creative Arts Agency extended its heartfelt condolences to PADIKI’s family, friends, colleagues, the artistic community and all Ghanaians mourning her passing.

The Agency also pledged to continue promoting the values of innovation, excellence and cultural pride that PADIKI passionately embodied throughout her career.

The statement, signed by Gideon Aryeequaye, Acting Executive Secretary of the Creative Arts Agency, concluded with a prayer for her peaceful rest, saying, “May her soul rest in perfect peace, and may her enduring legacy continue to inspire the world.”

Ghanaian influencer and entrepreneur Kwatemaa Andoh has stated that she has no intention of marrying a man who is financially struggling. According to her, she prefers a partner whose financial status matches or exceeds her own.

Speaking in a video shared on social media on July 8, 2026, Kwatemaa responded to critics who labeled her a “gold digger.” She said she is comfortable with the criticism and believes her standards reflect the reality of the lifestyle she has built for herself.

She explained that she has worked tirelessly to achieve financial independence and does not believe she should lower her expectations when choosing a life partner. In her view, she would rather be called a gold digger than settle for someone who cannot match her ambitions or financial level.

Kwatemaa emphasized that she is only interested in a relationship with someone who is on the same financial level as she is or better. However, she clarified that if her husband were to face financial hardship after they were already married, she would stand by him and support him through the difficult period.

She noted that there is a difference between choosing to marry someone who is already financially unstable and supporting a spouse whose circumstances change after marriage. In the latter case, she believes it is a couple’s responsibility to work together and rebuild.

The entrepreneur added that she enjoys the comfortable lifestyle she has created, including traveling and funding her own experiences. As a result, she has no interest in entering a relationship where she would bear the financial responsibility for both partners.

According to Kwatemaa, she values financial stability and wants a partner who is equally hardworking so they can build a successful life together.