Ghanaian businessman and lawyer Stephen Kwabena Boateng, popularly known as Kwabena Kesse or Kessben, has died at the age of 68, leaving behind a significant legacy in Ghana’s business and media landscape.
Kessben was born on September 12, 1957, in North Suntreso in Kumasi. Over several decades, he built himself into one of Ghana’s notable entrepreneurs, developing a business empire that expanded into several sectors.
His entrepreneurial journey eventually led to the establishment of the Kessben Group of Companies, which became associated with a wide range of businesses and institutions.
The group had interests in areas including media, education, hospitality, transportation, financial services and other commercial activities. Among the businesses associated with the group were Kessben Travel and Tours, Kessben Driving School, Kessben Computer School, Kessben Shipping and Forwarding, Fosua Hotel and Conference Centre, Kessben University College and Kessben Consult.
His influence also extended into Ghana’s media industry. Through Kessben FM Limited, the businessman was associated with media outlets including Kessben FM, Kessben TV and Aseda TV.
The media side of his business empire helped make his name familiar to audiences across Ghana, particularly in the Ashanti Region and Kumasi, where Kessben had established a strong presence.
Beyond his business activities, Kessben was also involved in public and philanthropic activities. He served as a member of Ghana’s National Peace Council from 2004 to 2010, contributing to efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the country.
His professional background was equally notable. Kessben was a trained lawyer and was called to the Ghana Bar at the age of 64, adding a legal career to his already extensive business experience.
Kessben’s career demonstrated his ability to operate across different sectors while building organisations that employed and served people in various parts of Ghana.
His reported passing on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, followed a short period of illness in Kumasi, according to a statement from the Kessben Group. The group subsequently confirmed his death and expressed condolences to his family, the legal fraternity, church and wider network of associates.
The news has generated an outpouring of tributes from Ghanaians, business associates, media personalities and people who knew him through his various ventures.
For many, his name will remain closely connected to entrepreneurship in Kumasi and the growth of privately owned businesses in Ghana.
His passing also represents a significant moment for the Kessben Group, which he founded and led as President, Founder and Chief Executive Officer.
The group has continued to operate across several sectors, and his death leaves behind an established corporate structure built over decades.
A book of condolence is expected to be opened at his Denyame residence in Kumasi, while details concerning his funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family and the Kessben Group.
Kessben’s legacy ultimately extends beyond the businesses that carried his name. His career represents decades of entrepreneurship, legal practice, media ownership, philanthropy and public service.
As tributes continue to pour in, attention is now turning to celebrating his contributions and remembering the impact he made during his lifetime.
Source: Thepressradio.com
