Kessben Group CEO Stephen Kwabena Boateng dies at 68
Renowned Kumasi Businessman Dies After Illness
Kumasi Businessman and entrepreneur Stephen Kwabena Boateng, popularly known as Kwabena Kesse or Kessben, has died at the age of 68. The Chief Executive Officer of KESSBEN Group of Companies is reported to have passed away after an illness. His death brings to an end the life of one of Kumasi’s prominent entrepreneurs, whose business interests spanned media, education, transport, hospitality, finance and other sectors.
From North Suntreso to Business Success
Born on September 12, 1957, Stephen Kessben grew up in North Suntreso in Kumasi. Over more than three decades, he built and managed a diverse portfolio of businesses, establishing himself as a significant figure in Ghana’s private sector. His entrepreneurial journey eventually culminated in the establishment of the Kessben Group, an umbrella organisation overseeing several registered companies.
A Diverse Business Empire
The Kessben Group grew to include a wide range of businesses and institutions, reflecting Kessben’s interests across different sectors of the economy.
Among them were Kessben Travel and Tours, Kessben Driving School, Kessben Computer School, Kessben Shipping and Forwarding Ltd., Fosua Hotel and Conference Centre, Kessben University College, Kessben Consult and the Kessben Foundation. His business interests also extended into broadcasting through Kessben FM Limited.
A Major Figure in Ghanaian Media
Kessben was the sole shareholder of Kessben FM Limited, the company under which his media businesses—Kessben TV, Aseda TV and Kessben FM—were registered. Through these platforms, he became a recognisable name in Ghana’s media landscape, particularly in the Ashanti Region. His involvement in broadcasting further strengthened his public profile and expanded the reach of the Kessben brand beyond his traditional business interests.
Interests in Financial Services
Beyond media and education, Kessben also had significant interests in financial services. He held majority shares in Multi Credit Savings and Loans Ltd., adding another major sector to his already extensive business portfolio.
His ability to operate across several industries was a defining feature of his career as an entrepreneur.
Philanthropy and Public Service
Stephen Kessben was also known for his philanthropic activities. Through the Kessben Foundation and his personal efforts, he contributed to various social and community initiatives. His public service extended beyond business and philanthropy. He served on Ghana’s National Peace Council from 2004 to 2010, contributing to efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the country.
A Lasting Legacy
Kessben’s death marks the loss of a businessman whose name became closely associated with entrepreneurship, broadcasting and community development in Ghana.
From his beginnings in North Suntreso to building a diversified business group spanning several industries, his career reflected decades of enterprise and ambition. As tributes are expected to pour in from the business, media and political communities, Stephen Kwabena Boateng leaves behind a legacy that extends across the numerous institutions and businesses he established during his lifetime.
