GOODNIGHT AND GOODBYE: Scrabble Africa mourns as Ghana's Victor Amartey passes away

GOODNIGHT AND GOODBYE: Scrabble Africa mourns as Ghana's Victor Amartey passes away

The African Scrabble community has been thrown into mourning following the death of one of Ghana's finest players, Victor Amartey, fondly known as "VAMA," who died early on Monday.

The sad news was announced by the President of the Pan African Scrabble Association (PANASA), Adekoyejo Adegbesan, after receiving confirmation from the President of the Ghana Scrabble Association, Haruna Adamu.

Expressing his grief, Adegbesan described Amartey as one of the pillars of Ghanaian Scrabble and a respected figure across the continent.

"I have just been informed by the President of the Scrabble Association of Ghana of the passing of one of our own, Ghana's Victor Amartey, who died early this morning. VAMA was a constant feature in the Scrabble scene in Ghana, a formidable opponent on the board and a gentleman off it."

He recalled the first meeting Amartey in the United Kingdom several years ago and noted that their last encounter was across the Scrabble board in Accra after the WESPA Championships in 2025.

"I would like you all to join me in commiserating with our Ghanaian Scrabble family on this loss," he added.

Amartey's achievements extended beyond his sportsmanship. Two years ago, he captured the prestigious Alisa Invitational title, a victory that further cemented his place among Ghana's leading Scrabble players.

Tributes have continued to pour in from across Africa, reflecting the deep respect he commanded within the game.

Former African Scrabble champion Femi Awowade described the news as heartbreaking.

"OMG... This is sad. Victor was a formidable opponent back in the days and also a proper gentleman–cool and strategic. Condolences to his family and all of Ghana Scrabble Association. May God Almighty remember him for resurrection."

On behalf of the Gambia Scrabble Federation, Ebrima Saye extended sympathies to the bereaved family and the Ghanaian Scrabble community.

"On behalf of GSF and myself, heartfelt condolences are extended. May the soul of the departed rest in peace."

President of the South African Scrabble body, Ike Obidike also paid tribute, saying:

"May his soul rest in peace."

The Head Coach of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation, Prince Anthony Ikolo, offered prayers for the departed Scrabble star.

"Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul rest in peace."

Captain of Team Nigeria at the last West African Scrabble Championship, Ben Quickpen described Amartey's passing as a huge loss to the Scrabble family.

"Such a big loss. My sincere condolences to the Scrabble Federation of Ghana and everyone that was very close to him. May his soul rest in peace and may his immediate family find comfort in this period."

Adding his voice, President of Lekki Scrabble Club, Samuel Anikoh, reflected on the inevitability of life while paying tribute to the late Ghanaian star.

"A sad but inevitable life occurrence. May his soul find eternal peace. My condolences to his family and the SCAG community."

Victor Amartey's passing leaves a void in African Scrabble. Remembered as a fierce competitor, a strategic thinker, and a humble gentleman, his legacy will continue to inspire players across the continent.

As the African Scrabble family grieves, thoughts and prayers remain with his family, friends, teammates, and the entire Ghana Scrabble community.