Osei Kwame Despite
- Date of birth: February 2, 1962
- Birthplace: Agona Wiamoase, Ashanti Region, Ghana
- Zodiac sign: Aquarius
- Nationality: Ghanaian
- Occupation: Entrepreneur, Philanthropist
Who is Osei Kwame Despite?
Osei Kwame Despite is a Ghanaian entrepreneur and philanthropist who has made a name for himself in the media and business sectors. He is the CEO of the Despite Group of Companies, which owns several radio and TV stations, as well as other ventures in salt production, food processing, and financial services. Here are some interesting facts about his life, career, and personal life.
Early life and education
Osei Kwame Despite was born on February 2, 1962, in Agona Wiamoase, a town in the Ashanti Region of Ghana.
In the town of Dunkwa-Offinso, situated in the Central region of Ghana, Kwame Despite started his career as a humble trader, initially dealing in music cassettes, feeding bottles, padlocks, and various other goods.
He moved to Lagos, Nigeria, with his colleagues to seek greener pastures, but returned to Ghana in 1983 due to political unrest in Nigeria.
He only had a trident cassette player and a chain-saw machine when he came back to Ghana. He tried to start a timber contracting business, but his machine was destroyed by a falling tree on his first trip.
He did not give up and continued to sell cassette tapes before diversifying his business.
Career and achievements
Osei Kwame Despite ventured into the media industry in 1999, when he founded Peace FM, an Akan-language radio station that focused on local music and culture.
The station has become very popular among radio listeners who are looking for local programming. Peace FM also became known for its political and social commentary.
Osei Kwame Despite expanded his media empire by establishing more radio stations, such as Hello FM in Kumasi, Okay FM and Neat FM in Accra, as well as Peacefmonline.com, a news website.
He also co-founded United Television (UTV), which is one of the leading TV stations in Ghana. UTV broadcasts news, entertainment, sports, and cultural programs.
Osei Kwame Despite also owns other businesses, such as:
- U2 Company Limited, which produces iodised salt
- Neat Foods Limited, a company specialising in the processing of locally sourced plantain, cocoyam, maize, and palm fruits, transforming them into a range of products, including the popular Neat Fufu.
- Atona Foods Limited, a renowned producer of delightful treats, offering products like This Way chocolate drink and Motherlac.
- Best Point Savings and Loans Limited, a reputable financial institution.
Awards
Osei Kwame Despite has received several awards and honours for his entrepreneurship and philanthropy:
- In 2019, he was recognised with the esteemed GH CAPTAIN's Award for his remarkable contributions to Ghana's socio-economic development.
- In 2021, he received the prestigious Africa Entrepreneur of the Year accolade at the African Achievers Awards in the United Kingdom.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Osei Kwame Despite is married to Tracy. They tied the knot in 2019.
He has nine children.
He is known for his lavish lifestyle and his love for luxury cars. He owns several mansions and exotic vehicles such as Rolls Royce, Bentley, Ferrari, Mercedes Benz, and others.
He is also a generous philanthropist who supports various causes and projects. He has donated to hospitals, schools, orphanages, churches, and communities. He has also sponsored scholarships for needy students and supported young entrepreneurs.
