Bagobiri Seidu Anatuh Esq., Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), has announced the death of her mother, Madam Elizabeth Assibi Kanluke, describing her as a woman whose life was defined by compassion, discipline, and deep respect for authority.
Madam Anatuh said her late mother’s teachings, particularly on humility, service to others, and obedience to rightful authority have shaped her personal and professional life and will continue to guide her and future generations of her family.
“My mother taught me compassion for humanity and respect for authority at every point in life. These values remain pillars of guidance for my children and me,” she noted.
Madam Elizabeth Assibi Kanluke passed away peacefully at the age of 85. She will be laid to rest on Friday, December 27, 2025, in accordance with her faith and family traditions.
Early Life and Family Background
Madam Elizabeth Assibi Kanluke was born in 1940 to Theophilus Kanluke, also known as Ex-Sergeant Moro Grushie, of the Regimental West Africa Frontier Force of the Gold Coast Army. Her father, who hailed from Janania in Navrongo, served under British colonial control and fought in both the First and Second World Wars. Her mother, Madam Bagna Theresa Ayariga Kanluke, was a trader and pito brewer from Doba, also in Navrongo.
She grew up in a disciplined military environment, spending her youthful days at the Ouadara Barracks in Kumasi, within the Armed Forces Training Centre. Despite living in Kumasi, her father ensured she attended school in Navrongo to remain connected to her cultural roots, customs, and heritage, returning to Kumasi during vacations.
Madam Assibi was part of a close-knit family. She had two brothers—Baba Robert Kanluke and John Kamburege Kanluke—and a sister, Teni Catherine Kanluke.
Educational Journey
Her formal education began in 1950. She completed middle school in 1965 and later gained admission to Tumu Training College, where she studied from 1969 to 1973. Her time at the training college laid the foundation for a lifelong career in education, marked by dedication and leadership.
Distinguished Career in Education
After completing her teacher training, Madam Assibi was first posted to Basina Primary School. She was later transferred to Adda Primary School, which at the time also functioned as a day nursery.
In the 1980s, she was transferred to Bawku, where she taught at Daduri Primary School and St. Anthony Primary School. Her commitment to education later brought her back to Navrongo, where she served at St. Mary’s Primary School for 11 years and subsequently at Adabayeri Primary School for three years, serving as Headmistress at both institutions.
Towards the end of her career, Madam Assibi was transferred to the Catholic Education Unit Office in Navrongo. There, she served for three years as Head of Day Nursery for Catholic Schools in the Navrongo Centre. She retired honorably in 2008 as an Assistant Director of Education.
Life of Faith and Service
A devoted Catholic, Madam Assibi lived an unwavering life of faith. She served as a catechist, teaching children the doctrines of the Catholic Church, and stood as a spiritual mother to many, often serving as a godmother during baptisms. Her passion for music saw her become a choir master for the Christian Mothers’ Society, where she also served as President. During her tenure, she facilitated the acquisition of a tractor to support the Society’s income-generating activities.
She was a member of the Knights of St. John International and actively led prayers during Corpus Christi celebrations. She was also a member of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Society.
Even after an accident that limited her mobility, Madam Assibi’s devotion never waned. She ensured attendance at Mass with the help of her grandson’s wife, Jane Mallah. When she could no longer attend church, Holy Communion was brought to her at home. She received regular visits and prayers from clergy, including the Bishop of the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Diocese, Most Rev. Alfred Agyenta, and the Rector of Navrongo Parish, Rev. Fr. David A. Azambawu, alongside several priests, religious sisters, and Eucharistic ministers.
Madam Elizabeth Assibi Kanluke leaves behind a rich legacy of faith, education, discipline, and service to humanity—values her family says will continue to inspire generations to come.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Moses Apiah | Navrongo
