BIOGRAPHY OF THE LATE ALHAJI DR. DR. ASOMA ABU BANDA
“A sudden thought did not attain the height by which great men reached and kept. They, when their compatriots slept, kept burning the midnight oil”. This old English quote encapsulates the essence of Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda’s life—a legacy built not on privilege but on resilience, determination, and hard work. From humble beginnings as a cattle herder to becoming one of Ghana’s most revered business moguls, his story is an enduring source of inspiration. He exemplifies how perseverance and an unyielding commitment to excellence can propel an individual from obscurity to global prominence.
Early Life and Education
Born on 21st June 1933 in Kintampo, in the Brong Ahafo Region, Alhaji Banda’s origins were modest. As the only child of Alhaji Abu Banda and Madam Ajara Banda, despite his father having four wives and 14 children, he learned early the value of hard work and sacrifice. His education began in Kintampo at a primary school founded by his father, and in 1948, he moved to Kumasi to attend the renowned Kumasi Government Boys School. These early experiences not only laid the foundation for his academic journey but also instilled in him the resilience that would define his future and honor his lineage.
Business & Career
Alhaji Banda’s entry into the business world was nothing short of remarkable. At a young age, he embarked on what would be one of his most formidable challenges—traveling approximately 1,500 miles on foot from Mopti, Mali, Niger, and Upper Volta (now Burkina Faso) to Kumasi to procure cattle. This arduous journey, marked by setting up camps every 12 miles to ensure the animals were nourished, exemplified his dedication and work ethic. With the savings he accumulated, he journeyed to London in 1961 to further his education, enrolling at Balham and Tooting College of Commerce, now West London University, where he earned a diploma in Marketing and Sales Management.
His career trajectory took a pivotal turn when he joined Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in London as the Director overseeing Africa and the Middle East. Within five years, he advanced to the position of Marketing Manager for this renowned British company. However, after his distinguished tenure at ICI, he felt the time had come to move on.—Armed with vast experience and a tenacious spirit, he ventured into private enterprise. In partnership with a friend, he chartered ships to carry cargo to West Africa, a venture that laid the groundwork for his eventual rise as a shipping magnate.
Alhaji Banda’s business acumen was legendary. He went on to establish and lead several companies under the Antrak Group banner, including acquiring O T Africa Line (OTAL) — an enterprise that expanded its operations across 146 countries and provided employment for over 500,000 people globally. His innovative approach enabled him to control air, sea, and land transport, setting new standards in logistics and maritime trade, a significant move that solidified his status in the shipping industry. He later sold OTAL to the Bolloré Group in the 1990s but continued to serve as its chairman, reflecting his enduring influence in the sector. He was also the founder and executive chairman of Antrak Air, the first fully Ghanaian-owned aviation company, marking a milestone in the nation’s aviation history.
Impact on Business and Leadership
Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda was widely recognized for his significant impact on Ghana’s business landscape. His leadership and entrepreneurial efforts transformed the shipping and aviation sectors, providing employment opportunities for thousands of Ghanaians. Through his companies, he fostered economic growth and increased Ghana’s influence in the global maritime and aviation industries. Alhaji Banda was known for his ethical business practices, strategic vision, and mentorship of young entrepreneurs, many of whom went on to establish successful businesses of their own.
His leadership extended beyond business into philanthropy and education. He actively supported various educational institutions, offering scholarships to underprivileged students and funding infrastructure projects in schools. As a political leader and businessman, he played a crucial role in advising government officials on policies to enhance trade, transportation, and economic development in Ghana. His commitment to national progress made him a highly respected figure in both the public and private sectors.
Contributions to the Muslim Community
As a devout Muslim, Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda was deeply committed to the development of the Muslim community in Ghana. He generously supported the construction and renovation of mosques, Islamic schools (madrasas), and other religious institutions. His philanthropic efforts extended to providing scholarships for young Muslims to pursue higher education both locally and internationally.
Alhaji Banda was also a key advocate for unity within the Muslim community, working closely with religious leaders to promote peace and cooperation among different sects. During major Islamic celebrations such as Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha, he provided financial and material support to underprivileged families, ensuring that they could participate in the festivities. His contributions to the Muslim community were widely acknowledged, and he remained a revered figure among Ghanaian Muslims for his generosity and commitment to Islamic values.
Political Involvement
Beyond his business ventures, Alhaji Banda was actively engaged in Ghana’s political landscape. With the help of some members, he established The People’s Convention Party (PCP) and became the chairman. He later moved for the name to be changed from PCP to CPP (The Convention Peoples Party), of which he was a proud member until his demise.
His political journey saw him mentored by stalwarts like Alhaji Imoro Egala and Kojo Botsio. Despite periods of political turbulence—including detention during the Limann administration and subsequent exile—he returned to Ghana’s democratic fold in 1986 and later played a pivotal role in forging political alliances that reshaped Ghana’s electoral landscape in the 1990s.
During the 1996 election, Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda single-handedly spearheaded the formation of the Great Alliance, which merged with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and had former President Kuffuor and Ackaah as its flagbearer and running mate.
Additionally, he was a former member of the Council of State, contributing his insights and experience to national governance, and served on numerous boards such as Ghana Airways, Ghana Port and Harbours Authority. Meridian Port Services Ltd. Ghana Maritime Authority, Shippers’ Council, Ship Owners and Agents Association of Ghana, CFAO Ghana Limited, Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, BUSAC Fund, Ghana Police Trust Fund, and Cal Bank Ltd.
Awards and Recognitions
Throughout his lifetime, Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to business, education, and national development:
- First African to own a ship and the first Ghanaian to own an aircraft
- Companion of the Order of the Volta
- Founding member and chairman of Cross Marine Services, Nigeria
- Ghana’s Best Transport and Logistics Personality in the Year 2006
- First Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba 2010-2023
- Honorary Doctorate Degrees: He was conferred an Honorary Doctor of Entrepreneurship (Honoris Causa) by the University of Cape Coast in 2007 and an Honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) by the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in 2002.
- Kwame Nkrumah Leaders Award: In 2003, he received this award from the All African Students Union for his leadership qualities and support for youth and students across Africa and the Diaspora.
- West Africa Maritime Lifetime Achievement Award: He was honored with this award in 2009 for his pioneering role in the maritime industry.
- Golden Star Award for Aviation Operation in West Africa: Alhaji Banda was awarded this prestigious recognition in 2009 for his contributions to the aviation sector.
- Silver Award from the Brong Ahafo Region: He received this award during the 50th-anniversary celebration of the Brong Ahafo Region, acknowledging his role in regional development.
- Best Shipping Line of the World: His shipping company was recognized as the Best Shipping Line of the World twice, in 1999 and 2000, highlighting its excellence in the maritime industry.
- Entrepreneur of a decade (2001) by EMPRETEC Ghana Foundation
Personal Life
Despite his monumental success, Alhaji Banda’s personal life remained grounded in love, humility, and family values. He first married Cassandra Aisha Banda, with whom he had five children, As per Muslim tradition he legally married his second wife, Mrs. Edwina Baaba Coussey Banda. Their union was eventually blessed with twin daughters. In total, Papa left behind a family of 12 (twelve) children, twenty-two (22) grandchildren, and 1 (one) great-grandchild—a testament to a life enriched by love and legacy. Renowned for his impeccable style, humor, and gentlemanly demeanor, he was always flawlessly attired, whether in a flowing white agbada or a tailored suit, embodying both dignity and humility.
Death and Legacy
Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda passed away peacefully at the age of 92, leaving behind an indelible mark on Ghana and beyond. His later years were shadowed by health challenges, including spinal complications that required extensive treatment, yet his spirit remained resolute until the end. His passing signified not just the loss of a towering business figure and philanthropist, but also the end of an era of visionary leadership and boundless generosity.
Today, his legacy endures in the countless lives he touched—through the businesses he built, the philanthropic initiatives he championed, and the lessons in perseverance and integrity he imparted. Alhaji Banda’s life serves as a powerful reminder that greatness is achieved through relentless determination, selfless service, and an unwavering commitment to one’s community. His journey from a humble cattle herder to a global shipping magnate continues to inspire and empower future generations.