Nana Kodwo Addae II: A Life of Service, Tradition and Leadership

Nana Kodwo Addae II, known in private life as Mensah Savage, was a respected traditional leader whose life was closely connected to public service, traditional leadership and the development of Abura in Cape Coast.

Born on 21 December 1947, Nana Kodwo Addae II began his education at Saint Augustine’s Practice School before continuing his studies at Workers’ College in Cape Coast and Accra between 1965 and 1971. He later pursued professional training at the Cartographic Training School in Accra, where he studied between 1971 and 1973. 

His professional life was largely dedicated to Ghana’s public service. Nana Kodwo Addae II spent about 38 years with the Survey Department, building expertise in technical surveying and cartography. He progressed through several positions, including Technical Officer II in 1975, Technical Officer Grade I in 1981 and Senior Technical Officer in 1999. In recognition of his professional commitment, he received a government scholarship in 1988 to undertake further training at the RECTA Regional Centre for Training in Aerospace Survey in Ile-Ife. 

Beyond his professional career, Nana Kodwo Addae II became an important figure in the traditional administration of the Oguaa Traditional Area. He served as the Chief of Abura and Guantoahen of the Oguaa Traditional Area/Council, representing the Brempong Kodwo Ebiradze Royal Family and providing traditional leadership to the people of Abura. 

His traditional leadership was characterised by a close connection with the people. Accounts published about his reign describe him as a humble and approachable chief who regularly interacted with residents and maintained a strong presence within the community. He was also described as a leader who placed emphasis on unity, peace and community development. 

Nana Kodwo Addae II’s influence extended beyond the traditional affairs of Abura. He became associated with efforts to preserve the community’s cultural identity while encouraging development and cooperation among its people. His role as chief placed him at the centre of Abura’s relationship with the wider Oguaa Traditional Council and the cultural life of Cape Coast.

In January 2026, a Nana Kodwo Addae II Crown of Legacy Award was established in his name in recognition of his traditional leadership and legacy. The initiative described him as a chief with more than three decades of service and highlighted his reputation for humility, community engagement and dedication to his people.

After decades of professional and traditional service, Nana Kodwo Addae II’s reign came to an end with his passing on 30 May 2026 at the Central Regional Hospital in Cape Coast, according to the announcement by the Brempong Kodwo Ebiradze Royal Family.

His death marked the departure of a traditional leader who had spent many years serving both his profession and his community. As Chief of Abura and Guantoahen of the Oguaa Traditional Area, his name became part of the continuing history of Abura’s traditional leadership.

The people of Abura, the Brempong Kodwo Ebiradze Royal Family and the wider Oguaa Traditional Area now mourn his passing as they remember a life shaped by service, tradition, professional dedication and leadership.

Nana Kodwo Addae II may have joined the ancestors, but the history of his service to Abura remains part of the community he led.