Tribute to Maame Dokono: The Woman Who Made Our Weekends Unforgettable

Grace Omaboe, widely celebrated as Maame Dokono, has remained one of Ghana’s most cherished personalities since her birth on June 10, 1946. Her career has stretched across several fields, including acting, music, television, writing and politics. She is also the author of The Unforgettable. However, what has made her particularly special to Ghanaians is the lasting affection she has earned from people who grew up watching and listening to her.

For countless Ghanaian children, the name Maame Dokono immediately brings back memories of Saturday television. Through By The Fireside, she introduced young viewers to the richness of Ghanaian folklore and traditional storytelling. Her famous “pempran!” became a familiar signal that another exciting story was about to begin. Children and families would gather around the television as she narrated tales that entertained while also passing on cultural lessons.

Her impact extended into Sunday television through her association with the Obra Drama Group. The group’s performances attracted families across the country, and the recognisable Obra theme song became a familiar sound in many homes. Maame Dokono’s memorable acting and emotional performances helped make those productions an important part of Ghana’s television history.

Today, she continues to dedicate herself to causes beyond entertainment. Through the Graceful Grace School in Accra, she remains involved in the education and development of children. She has also consistently used her public platform to promote issues concerning the welfare and empowerment of women and children.

The story of Maame Dokono is therefore much bigger than her achievements as an entertainer or politician. She became part of the childhood memories of generations of Ghanaians, providing laughter, lessons and unforgettable stories. Her warmth, talent and commitment to helping others have secured her a lasting place in Ghana’s cultural history.