Ghana’s business community is mourning the loss of Alhaji Asoma Banda, a renowned entrepreneur who made significant contributions to the country’s shipping and aviation industries. He passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025.
Dele Momodu, a Nigerian businessman and close associate, announced the news on social media, paying tribute to Alhaji Banda on Instagram. “Such a privilege knowing this adorable couple, ALHAJI & EDWINA ASOMA-BANDA, in the last three decades… Today, the elephant has fallen… May ALLAH bless BAABA for keeping ALHAJI comfortable to the end. May ALLAH comfort the entire family, his wives, and children,” Momodu wrote.
In accordance with Islamic tradition, Alhaji Banda was buried on the same day. Tributes have poured in for the business titan, with prominent businessman Sir Sam Jonah eulogizing him as a visionary entrepreneur and national asset.
“This morning, Ghana has lost a true patriot, a visionary entrepreneur, and a giant of industry,” Sir Sam Jonah stated. “Alhaji Banda’s transformational impact on Ghana’s economy, particularly through Antrak Airlines, which revolutionized domestic air travel, will be remembered for generations to come.”
Sir Sam Jonah also reflected on the challenges Alhaji Banda faced in business, particularly the intersection of entrepreneurship and politics.
“Ghana has witnessed too often how business and politics can be an uneasy mix, a lesson that should serve as a cautionary tale to future entrepreneurs.”
Alhaji Banda was also described as a historian and mentor who freely shared insights about Ghana’s economic past and future prospects.
“He never concealed his humble beginnings. Instead, he wore them as a badge of honour—proof that determination, hard work, and vision can elevate one from modest origins to the heights of success,” Sir Sam Jonah said.
As Ghana mourns the loss of this business icon, Sir Sam Jonah urged Ghanaians to celebrate Alhaji Banda’s legacy, stressing that his resilience and achievements should inspire future generations of entrepreneurs.
“As we bid farewell to this extraordinary man, let us not only mourn his passing but celebrate his legacy. His resilience, vision, and unshakable belief in African enterprise will continue to inspire.”
Alhaji Asoma Banda’s contributions to Ghana’s economy remain indelible, with Antrak Airlines standing out as a game-changer in domestic aviation.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his entrepreneurial spirit, industry leadership, and advocacy for African enterprise will continue to influence business and development across the continent.