Bernice Afi Adiku Heloo (24 September 1954 – 25 December 2024) was a visionary leader, compassionate advocate, and dedicated servant of her community. Born in Hohoe, Volta Region, to Rev. E. T. Adiku and Comfort Adiku, she grew to become a trailblazer whose life was defined by service and empowerment.
Her educational journey was marked by excellence, beginning at Mawuli School and OLA Girls’ Secondary School. She earned a BA in the Study of Religions and an MPhil in Adult Education from the University of Ghana, an M.Ed. in Literacy for Rural Development from the University of Manchester, and a Doctorate in Political Economy from the Swiss Management Center University.Bernice’s professional life was deeply rooted in advocacy. She founded Prolink, a Ghanaian NGO supporting vulnerable populations, and served as the president of the Society for Women and AIDS in Africa. Her work uplifted countless lives and addressed pressing social challenges with compassion and tenacity.
As a Member of Parliament for Hohoe Constituency from 2013 to 2021, and as Deputy Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Bernice championed policies for sustainable development and community welfare. Her commitment to public service earned her the respect of her peers and the people she served.
Bernice Afi Heloo passed away on 25 December 2024 at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, love, and dedication. She is survived by her children—Amma Gatty, Kwabena Yeboah, Ewoenam Heloo, and Bernice Akpene Heloo—as well as her husband, Dr. Dela Heloo. Her life story continues to inspire all who knew her.
A Legacy of Unwavering Dedication
Dr Bernice Afi Adiku Heloo established Prolink, a Ghanaian non-governmental organisation dedicated to empowering vulnerable populations, particularly women and children. Prolink focused on health advocacy, education, and social development, leaving a lasting impact on the communities it served.
At the Society for Women and AIDS in Africa (SWAA), Bernice championed awareness and advocacy for HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and support. Her leadership was instrumental in reducing stigma and providing vital resources to affected individuals across the continent.
Bernice represented the Hohoe Constituency in Ghana’s 6th and 7th Parliaments from 2013 to 2021. Her tenure was marked by her commitment to community development, women’s empowerment, and education, as she worked tirelessly to uplift her constituents.
Appointed by President John Dramani Mahama in 2013, Bernice served as Deputy Minister, where she promoted sustainable development initiatives and policies that addressed critical environmental and technological challenges in Ghana.
Bernice earned an impressive array of academic qualifications, including a BA, an MPhil, and an M.Ed., alongside a Doctorate in Political Economy. Her achievements in education were a testament to her passion for lifelong learning and advocacy for literacy and education in rural communities.
Throughout her career, Bernice was an outspoken advocate for women’s rights, education, and health. She consistently used her platform to address social inequalities and create opportunities for women to thrive in leadership roles.
Dr. Bernice Afi Adiku Heloo served as a Board Member of CRPL-Ghana, an organisation dedicated to balancing religion and spirituality in public life through research, education, and advocacy. Committed to diversity, inclusion, and justice, CRPL-Ghana works to influence policies and promote human rights, democratic freedoms, and interfaith dialogue.
Bernice achieved remarkable victories during the 2012 and 2016 Ghanaian general elections, securing over 80% of votes each time. Her success reflected the trust and admiration her constituents had in her leadership and vision.
Beyond her official roles, Bernice left a legacy of unwavering dedication to service, advocacy, and leadership. Her work continues to inspire many and remains a beacon for community development and empowerment in Ghana and beyond.
Messages from loved ones.
Dr Bernice Afi Adiku Heloo’s legacy is one of empowerment, compassion, and transformative leadership. She devoted her life to uplifting others through advocacy, public service, and social impact. Her pioneering work in women’s rights, health advocacy, and education reshaped countless lives and created lasting opportunities for future generations.
As a trailblazer, Bernice founded Prolink NGO, guided the Society for Women and AIDS in Africa, and served as a parliamentarian and deputy minister, leaving an indelible mark on Ghana’s development. Even in her absence, her life story continues to inspire individuals and organizations worldwide to strive for a better, fairer, and more inclusive society. The impact of her work will forever resonate in the lives she touched and the communities she helped transform.
Bernice Afi Adiku Heloo touched the lives of countless individuals through her compassion, leadership, and service. We invite you to share your cherished memories and moments with her. Whether it’s a photo, a story, or a heartfelt tribute, your contributions will help keep her legacy alive and celebrate the profound impact she had on us all.
In Loving Memory of Dr Bernice Afi Adiku Heloo
A Life Well Lived (1954–2024)
Copyright © 2025. All rights reserved.
