By Edem Latsu Nukafu
Accra is somber as news breaks of the passing of Auntie Imoro Muniratu, affectionately known as Auntie Muni, the iconic waakye seller at Labone junction. At the age of 72, Auntie Muni left an indelible mark on the hearts and taste buds of many, creating a legacy that transcended her humble waakye joint.
The sad announcement was made by Alhassan Abdul Arafat, Auntie Muni’s son, who confirmed her demise after a brief illness. According to Arafat, his mother’s health had been a cause for concern, leading to her initial admission to the SSNIT Hospital. Unfortunately, her condition worsened, compelling Auntie Muni to seek further medical attention.
Arafat shared, “After two days, we realised she was still not feeling well, so we rushed her to the University of Ghana Medical Centre for medical attention, and this morning (January 3) at 3 am, she passed away.”
Auntie Muni was more than just a waakye seller; she was a cultural icon, renowned for the long queues that formed at her waakye joint. Her waakye was more than a meal; it was a gastronomic experience that garnered admiration from locals and visitors alike.
As Ghanaians mourn the loss of Auntie Muni, tributes pour in from those whose lives she touched. Many recall not only the delicious waakye but also the warmth and kindness that radiated from this beloved culinary figure. The Labone junction, once bustling with customers eager to savor Auntie Muni’s waakye, now stands as a poignant reminder of the culinary legacy she leaves behind.
Auntie Muni’s passing is a profound loss for the community and a testament to the impact one individual can have through the simple act of serving a hearty meal with a generous side of warmth and hospitality. Ghana mourns the departure of Auntie Muni, a culinary matriarch whose waakye transcended plates to become a cultural institution in its own right.
Writer’s email:edemlatsu093@gmail.com