With a heavy heart, I mourn the passing of my dear friend, mentor, and physician of over 30 years, Dr. Felix Konotey-Ahulu.
We met in 1994 at Cromwell Hospital, and from that moment, I knew I had encountered a rare soul—brilliant, principled, deeply respectful, and unwavering in his pursuit of truth. He moved gracefully between science, culture, and faith, with a dignity that inspired all who knew him.
He gave his patients his full attention—never rushed, always listening, always present. His care extended far beyond medicine; he made you feel seen, valued, and understood.
Even in his 90s, he remained vibrant—driving, writing, and passionately defending Africa’s voice in medicine. At 93, he still carried the energy of a much younger man. I truly believed he would reach 100.
What I’ll miss most are our long, thoughtful exchanges—the debates, the laughter, the affectionate disagreements over email and WhatsApp. Auntie Rosemary would often smile or chuckle in the background during my visits, amused by our spirited banter. Those moments were precious.
Just last week, I arrived in the United Kingdom and called him, as I always did. There was no answer. Then, this morning, on the train from Manchester to London, my wife sent me the news. He was gone.
To Auntie Rosemary—his beloved wife of 63 years—my heartfelt condolences. To the children and grandchildren, may you find peace in the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind.
By Ambassador Edward Boateng; A former Ghanaian Ambassador to China and past CEO of the State Interests and Governance Authority
