Osei Kwame Despite Biography
Osei Kwame Despite is a celebrated entrepreneur and philanthropist, he has built an empire that touches the lives of many through his businesses and charitable acts. From starting as a smalltime trader to becoming the CEO of the Despite Group of Companies, his journey is a testament to hard work and vision. This Osei Kwame biography dives into his life, exploring his roots, achievements, and the legacy he continues to build. Whether you’re curious about his media ventures like Peace FM or his luxurious lifestyle, this article offers a clear and engaging look at his story.
Early Life
Osei Kwame Despite was born on February 2, 1962, in Agona Wiamoase, a small town in Ghana’s Ashanti Region known for its rich cultural heritage. Growing up in a modest family, life wasn’t always easy for young Osei. His early years were shaped by the vibrant community of Agona Wiamoase, where he learned the value of hard work. As a young boy, he showed a knack for business, selling small items like music cassettes, padlocks, and feeding bottles in DunkwaOnOffin, a town in Ghana’s Central Region. These early ventures were his first steps into entrepreneurship.
Seeking better opportunities, Osei moved to Lagos, Nigeria, in his early twenties. However, political unrest in Nigeria forced him to return to Ghana in 1983 with little to show for his time abroad, just a cassette player and a chainsaw. Back home, he faced setbacks, including a failed attempt to start a timber business when his chainsaw broke. Undeterred, he returned to selling music cassettes, laying the foundation for his future in the music and entertainment industry. His resilience during these tough times shaped his path to success.
Education
Details about Osei Kwame’s formal education are scarce, reflecting his focus on practical experience over academic pursuits. He attended primary school in Agona Wiamoase, where he developed a strong work ethic. While he didn’t pursue higher education in a traditional sense, his entrepreneurial journey is a masterclass in selfeducation. Later in life, a British university recognized his contributions to business and media by awarding him an honorary degree. This honor wasn’t for academic achievements but for his impact on society through ventures like Peace FM, which educates and informs Ghanaians. Osei’s story shows that success doesn’t always require a formal degree, just determination and a willingness to learn from life.
Osei Kwame Despite Age
Osei Kwame Despite was born on February 2, 1962. As of August 5, 2025, he is 63 years old. His age reflects a lifetime of building businesses and making a difference in Ghana. Born in the early 1960s, he grew up during a time of significant change in Ghana, which influenced his drive to create opportunities for himself and others. His birthdate places him among a generation of Ghanaians who witnessed the country’s growth and contributed to its development.
Parents
Little is known publicly about Osei Kwame’s parents, as he keeps his family background private. He was raised in a humble household in Agona Wiamoase, where his parents instilled values of perseverance and community. The Ashanti Region’s cultural traditions likely played a role in shaping his character, emphasizing family and hard work. While specific names or details about his parents aren’t available, their influence is evident in Osei’s commitment to supporting his family and community, such as when he gifted mansions to his sisters.
Osei Kwame Despite Wife
Osei Kwame’s personal life has often caught public attention, especially his relationships. In 2019, he married Tracy in a lavish ceremony that became a major talking point in Ghana. The event showcased his flair for grand gestures, a trait seen in both his personal and professional life. Some reports suggest he has been married twice, with an earlier wife mentioned in family circles, but details remain unclear, and Tracy is the most prominently known spouse. Osei’s ability to balance his highprofile career with his personal life highlights his role as a dedicated family man. His marriage to Tracy, in particular, reflects his status as a public figure whose personal milestones resonate widely.
Family
Family is at the heart of Osei Kwame’s life. He is a father to nine children, with his eldest son, Kennedy Osei Asante, taking a prominent role as the General Manager of Despite Media. Kennedy, born in 1988, made headlines with his extravagant wedding to fashion designer Tracy Ameyaw in 2020, followed by the birth of their twins in 2021. Osei’s closeknit family often appears at public events, showcasing their unity. His generosity extends to his siblings, as seen when he gifted two mansions to his sisters, a gesture that reflects his commitment to family welfare. Osei’s family life blends tradition with modernity, making him a relatable yet aspirational figure in Ghana.
Career
Osei Kwame’s career is a remarkable story of grit and innovation. He began as a petty trader in DunkwaOnOffin, selling everyday items like music cassettes and padlocks. After his stint in Nigeria and a failed timber venture, he focused on the music industry, distributing audio and visual cassettes through Despite Productions (now Despite Stores). This small business laid the groundwork for his empire.
In 1999, Osei launched Peace FM, a radio station that transformed Ghana’s media landscape by broadcasting primarily in Akan, making news and entertainment accessible to everyday Ghanaians. The success of Peace FM led to the creation of the Despite Group of Companies, which now includes:
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Media: Peace FM, Okay FM, Neat FM, Hello FM, and United Television (UTV).
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Food and Beverage: Neat Foods Company Limited, producing NEAT Fufu, NEAT Banku, NEAT Abenkwan, NEAT Hausa Koko, and NEAT Dairy Products; Antona Foods Ltd, known for This Way chocolate drink.
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Other Ventures: U2 Company Limited (iodated salt production) and Best Point Savings and Loans Ltd, where he serves as cofounder and ViceChairman.
His media outlets, especially Peace FM and UTV, have become household names, offering a mix of news, entertainment, and cultural programs. Osei’s ability to spot opportunities and adapt to market needs has made him a pioneer in Ghana’s business world. His leadership fosters innovation and community engagement, ensuring his companies remain relevant and impactful.
Awards
Osei Kwame’s contributions have earned him significant recognition. In 2019, he received the GH CAPTAIN’s Award for his role in Ghana’s socioeconomic development. In 2021, he was named Africa Entrepreneur of the Year at the African Achievers Awards in the United Kingdom, celebrating his influence across the continent. These accolades highlight his impact not just as a businessman but as a visionary who uplifts communities through his work.
Net Worth
Osei Kwame Despite is one of Ghana’s wealthiest individuals, with an estimated net worth between $800 million and $1.5 billion. His wealth comes from his diverse investments in media, real estate, hospitality, and food production. He owns luxurious properties in Ghana, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Dubai, including a multimilliondollar mansion unveiled in Accra in 2019. His car collection is equally impressive, featuring highend vehicles like a Bugatti Chiron (purchased for $3 million in 2022 to mark his 60th birthday), Lykan Hypersport, Rolls Royce Sweptail, and Lamborghini Veneno Roadster. His lavish lifestyle reflects his success, but his philanthropy, supporting education, healthcare, and community projects, shows his commitment to giving back.
Conclusion
Osei Kwame Despite’s life is a powerful example of what determination and vision can achieve. From selling cassettes in a small town to leading a business empire, he has shown that success is possible even from humble beginnings. His media ventures have informed and entertained millions, while his philanthropy has improved countless lives. At 63, Osei continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs in Ghana and beyond, proving that hard work and a heart for community can create a lasting legacy.
Call to Action
Want to learn more about Osei Kwame’s incredible journey? Visit the websites of Peace FM or UTV to explore his media empire. Share your thoughts on his story in the comments below or follow his updates on social media for the latest on his ventures. If you’re inspired to chase your own dreams, take a page from Osei’s book, start small, stay focused, and give back to your community!
FAQs
Who is Osei Kwame Despite?
Osei Kwame Despite is a Ghanaian entrepreneur and philanthropist, best known as the CEO of Despite Group of Companies, which includes Peace FM, UTV, and other ventures.
Where was Osei Kwame Despite born?
He was born in Agona Wiamoase, Ashanti Region, Ghana, on February 2, 1962.
What is Osei Kwame Despite’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated to be between $800 million and $1.5 billion, earned through media, real estate, and other businesses.
How many children does Osei Kwame Despite have?
He has nine children, including Kennedy Osei Asante, the General Manager of Despite Media.
What businesses does Osei Kwame Despite own?
He owns the Despite Group of Companies, including Peace FM, Okay FM, Neat FM, Hello FM, UTV, Neat Foods, U2 Company Limited, Antona Foods Ltd, and Best Point Savings and Loans Ltd.
Who is Osei Kwame Despite’s wife?
He is married to Tracy (since 2019), though some sources mention an earlier marriage.
What is Osei Kwame Despite’s educational background?
He attended primary school in Agona Wiamoase and later received an honorary degree from a British university for his entrepreneurial achievements.