Nana Osei Atwene Bonsu
The Grand Master who Revived Freemasonry in Ghana Post Covid
In the annals of Ghanaian Freemasonry, few names stand as tall as that of Nana Osei Atwene Bonsu, the outgoing Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ghana. His tenure was marked by resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to reviving and strengthening the fraternity after the setbacks posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Lifetime of Masonic Dedication
Born Osei Asamoa Bonsu, Nana Osei Atwene Bonsu’s journey in Freemasonry began on July 9, 1971, when he was initiated into his Mother Lodge. Over the years, he ascended through the ranks with remarkable dedication:
• Passed: November 13, 1971
• Raised: May 13, 1972
• Marked: January 13, 1973
• Elected Master: September 25, 1982
• Installed Master: May 14, 1983
His commitment extended beyond his Mother Lodge as he became an active member of several other lodges, including Progressive Lodge, Sir Agyeman Prempeh II Lodge, Oguaa Lodge, Greater Accra Lodge,
and Benevolence Lodge.
Leadership Through Turbulent Times
When Nana Osei Atwene Bonsu took the helm as Grand Master, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic had deeply affected Freemasonry in Ghana. Many lodges faced dwindling participation, financial difficulties, and logistical constraints in organizing meetings. Under his leadership, the Grand Lodge of Ghana rebounded with remarkable vigour. He implemented strategies that ensured brethren remained engaged, revived in-person meetings, and strengthened the core principles of the fraternity.
His tenure also saw the consolidation of relationships between the Grand Lodge of Ghana and other international Masonic bodies, fostering unity and growth. His influence extended to lodges under the Scottish, English, and Irish constitutions, earning him numerous distinguished titles and appointments.
A Trailblazer in Freemasonry
Nana Osei Atwene Bonsu’s influence in Ghanaian and global Freemasonry is evident in the numerous positions he held. His preferments included:
• First Provincial Grand Master
• Past Deputy Grand Master
• Honorary Provincial Grand Master
• Honorary Grand Standard Bearer
He also played an instrumental role in the formation of several lodges, serving as Founding Secretary for both Osei Tutu Lodge and Prempeh College Lodge (EC). His influence was deeply embedded in other Masonic orders, such as the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter, Royal Order of Scotland, and the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons.
A Legacy of Perseverance and Devotion
Beyond his leadership roles, Nana Osei Atwene Bonsu’s resilience in the face of adversity is legendary. When Masonic temples in Ghana were seized, preventing his installation as Master in December 1982, he did not waver. Instead, he was first installed in a private residence, ensuring that the light of Freemasonry continued to shine. His unwavering dedication was evident in the fact that, despite historical challenges, he never suspended his membership in the fraternity.
His contributions to Freemasonry in Ghana are not only measured by his positions but also by the legacy he leaves behind. A testament to his influence is that four of his children have been initiated into lodges under the Grand Lodge of Ghana, continuing the family’s commitment to the Craft.
The Future of Ghanaian Freemasonry
As he hands over the mantle of leadership, Nana Osei Atwene Bonsu’s contributions will be remembered as a defining chapter in the history of Ghanaian Freemasonry. His ability to steer the fraternity through challenging times, coupled with his passion for the Masonic principles of brotherhood, charity, and truth, ensures that his legacy will endure for generations to come.
Freemasonry in Ghana stands stronger today because of his leadership, and his name will forever be enshrined among the great Masonic luminaries of the country.