Stephen Kwabena Boateng was a businessman and lawyer
Ghanaian business mogul and lawyer, Stephen Kwabena Boateng, popularly known as Kessben or Kwabena Kesse, has died at the age of 68.
Kessben, the founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Kessben Group of Companies, died in Kumasi on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, following a short period of illness.
His death was officially confirmed by the Kessben Group on Thursday, August 20, 2026, bringing to an end the life of one of Ghana’s prominent entrepreneurs, particularly in the Ashanti Region.
Born on September 12, 1957, Stephen Boateng grew up at North Suntreso in Kumasi.
Before he became Kessben, one of Kumasi’s most recognisable business names, Stephen Boateng was a trained teacher.
He taught for three years before leaving the classroom to pursue business. His first major venture involved importing used refrigerators and electrical appliances.
That modest beginning eventually grew into a diversified business empire with interests across several sectors of the economy.
From teacher to business mogul
After leaving teaching, Kessben continued to identify opportunities in different areas of business.
Ghanaian business mogul Stephen Boateng 'Kessben' is dead - Reports
His interests expanded into travel, finance, real estate, education, hospitality and media.
The Kessben Group eventually included 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 financial services, with Kessben holding majority shares in Multi Credit Savings and Loans Ltd.
His media empire
He also ventured into the media industry by establishing Kessben FM Limited, the company under which his media businesses were registered.
His media interests included Kessben FM and Kessben TV, giving him a significant presence in the Ghanaian media landscape, particularly in the Ashanti Region.
From entrepreneur to founding a university
One of the most notable aspects of Kessben’s career was his transition from entrepreneur to founding a university.
The man once nicknamed “Teacher Boateng” for helping classmates with their homework eventually founded Kessben University College.
A former resort at Kuntanase was converted into a tertiary institution as part of his efforts to expand access to higher education.
Kessben also continued his own education while building his business career.
He obtained a first-class honours degree in Economics and Law from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and later earned a Master of Business Administration degree, majoring in Finance, from the same institution.
He was subsequently called to the Ghana Bar in 2022.
Beyond business, Kessben was known for his philanthropic activities and involvement in public service.
JKB/VPO
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