Renowned Ghanaian actor Mawuli Semevo, celebrated for his decades-long contributions to theater and film, has died at age 63 following a devastating fire accident at his home.
Semevo passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at Accra’s Ridge Hospital, where he had been hospitalized with severe burns covering 44% of his body. The incident occurred on February 7 when a fire engulfed his residence as he slept, leaving him with critical injuries and subsequent respiratory complications.
News of Semevo’s hospitalization prompted an urgent public fundraising campaign led by Beyond Burns International, a nonprofit specializing in burn victim support. The organization’s executive director, Judith Cato Addison, shared harrowing details in a widely circulated video appeal, describing the actor’s condition as “life-threatening” and urging Ghanaians to contribute to his medical care. “His entire body was affected—he lost his hair, his face was severely bruised, and every moment was a fight for survival,” Addison revealed, emphasizing the dire need for specialized treatment.
Despite these efforts, Semevo succumbed to his injuries, sparking an outpouring of grief from colleagues, fans, and cultural advocates. Tributes have flooded social media, with many highlighting his iconic roles in Ghanaian dramas and his mentorship of emerging talents. “He wasn’t just an actor; he was a storyteller who shaped our cultural fabric,” remarked filmmaker Kwame Ansah.
Semevo’s death has reignited conversations about safety nets for aging artists and the accessibility of emergency healthcare in Ghana’s creative industry. While organizations like Beyond Burns International provide critical intervention, the tragedy underscores systemic gaps in support for veterans who often lack insurance or sustainable income post-retirement. “How many more artists must suffer silently before we prioritize their welfare?” questioned actor and activist Esi Nyamekye.
The incident also casts a spotlight on fire safety in residential areas, particularly for elderly individuals living alone. Fire service officials reported that the blaze’s cause remains under investigation, though faulty wiring is suspected.
Semevo’s legacy, however, remains untarnished. From commanding stages in Accra to inspiring audiences across West Africa, his career exemplified artistry rooted in social commentary and authenticity. As the nation mourns, colleagues urge policymakers and the public to honor his memory by addressing the vulnerabilities faced by those who dedicate their lives to enriching Ghana’s cultural heritage. For now, the curtain falls on a life that illuminated countless stories—yet the call for action burns brighter than ever.
