Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda Reported Dead
The death of the distinguished business leader and pioneer in the country’s shipping and aviation industries was confirmed by Chief Dele Momodu in a social media post.
“Ghana’s iconic businessman ALHAJI ASOMA BANDA has passed on… My sincere condolences to his entire family and the good people of Ghana… I have just spoken to his widow, Mrs. EDWINA BAABA BANDA and commiserated with the family. ALHAJI was a father figure to me… On this first day of March and the Ramadan, may Allah forgive his sins and grant him Aljanah Firdaus,” he wrote.
Alhaji Banda was a visionary entrepreneur who played a transformative role in Ghana’s economic landscape. As the founder of Antrak Shipping Line, he significantly contributed to the growth of the maritime industry. He also revolutionized domestic air travel in Ghana and West Africa, opening new frontiers for business and connectivity.
Profile
Born in June 1933 in Kintampo, Alhaji Asoma Banda was a pioneering entrepreneur who transformed Ghana’s shipping, aviation, and transport industries. After early education in Ghana, he pursued further studies in London, earning qualifications in Marketing, Management, and Shipping.
He began his career at Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in London before venturing into private business in 1975. He co-founded OT Africa Line and Antrak Group, expanding operations to 146 branches worldwide and creating over 500,000 jobs. As the first African to own a ship and a Ghanaian aircraft, he revolutionized domestic air travel with Antrak Air.
Beyond business, Alhaji Banda was a philanthropist, financing major projects such as the refurbishment of Korle Bu’s maternity ward, the establishment of Tema Container Terminal, and police infrastructure. He also supported thousands annually and built a mosque in Accra.
His contributions earned him numerous accolades, including the Companion of the Order of Volta, multiple honorary doctorates, and lifetime achievement awards from Ghana and beyond.
