The Life and Legacy of Alhaji Asoma Banda: Ghana’s Pioneer Business Mogul

Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda, born in 1933, was a notable entrepreneur and philanthropist from Ghana who significantly impacted the economy. He established many companies globally, employed over 500,000 people, and was the first Ghanaian to own an aircraft. His contributions to society went beyond business, as he supported healthcare, security, and education. Recently, it was reported that he has passed away, marking a significant loss for the community.

Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda, born in June 1933 in Kintampo, Ghana, was a distinguished entrepreneur and philanthropist, recognized for his significant contributions to economic empowerment. He received his early education in Kintampo and Kumasi, later acquiring advanced qualifications in Marketing and Sales Management in London. His extensive training in marketing, management, and shipping equipped him to excel in his chosen career path.

Growing up in a business-oriented family, Mr. Banda was introduced to entrepreneurship early in life, working alongside his father in the road transport sector. Between 1955 and 1957, he undertook the challenging task of buying cattle from neighboring regions and transporting them to Kumasi, displaying a robust work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.

In 1960, seeking to expand his knowledge, Mr. Banda traveled to London for further education. He subsequently joined Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) as a Director responsible for Africa and the Middle East. This experience laid the foundation for his successful venture into private business in 1975, leading to the establishment of the OT Africa Line and the Antrak Group of Companies.

Under his astute leadership, over 146 branches of his companies emerged worldwide, providing employment to more than 500,000 individuals. As Chairman of Antrak Air, he pioneered the first wholly Ghanaian-owned airline, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s aviation history.

Mr. Banda demonstrated unwavering commitment to Ghana’s socio-economic development. He played a critical role in financing the renovation of the maternity wing of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in 1999 and invested significantly in the Tema Container Terminal. Furthermore, he established the Crime Prevention Foundation to enhance the resources of the Ghana Police Service and support national security.

Annual employment exceeded 3,000 individuals through his companies. In recognition of his faith and dedication, he constructed a mosque at significant cost. His many accolades included being the first African to own both a ship and an aircraft, and he received numerous awards from the Ghanaian government and international bodies.

Mr. Banda actively participated in Ghana’s political landscape, helping to establish the People’s Convention Party and later merge it with the New Patriotic Party during the 1996 elections. His influence extended to serving on various boards, including the Ghana Port and Harbours Authority and the University of Education, Winneba, where he held the title of Chancellor.

It is with profound sadness that we report Mr. Banda’s passing, a loss noted by Dele Momodu, a publisher with familial ties to him. Momodu conveyed condolences and offered his sympathies to the grieving family through outreach efforts.

Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda’s legacy as a transformative business leader and devoted philanthropist is underlined by his pioneering achievements, including being the first African to own a ship and an aircraft. His steadfast commitment to improving socio-economic conditions in Ghana resulted in significant contributions to healthcare, employment creation, and national security. Mr. Banda’s passing marks the end of an era for Ghanaian entrepreneurship and philanthropy, leaving a lasting impression on many lives.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com