The country has lost one of its greatest entrepreneurs and industrial pioneers, Alhaji Asoma Banda.

In a heartfelt tribute, businessman and close family friend, Sam Jonah, described his passing as not just a personal loss to his family and friends but a national tragedy.

“This morning, Ghana has lost a true patriot, a visionary entrepreneur, and a giant of industry - Alhaji Asoma Banda. His passing is not just a personal loss to his family and friends but a national one, for he was a man who dared to dream, to build, and to open doors where others saw only barriers,” Jonah wrote.

Alhaji Banda’s journey was one of relentless determination and ambition.

Read also: Business icon Asoma Banda passes on

From his modest beginnings, he rose to become a dominant force in Ghana’s shipping and aviation sectors, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s economic landscape.

His establishment of Antrak Shipping Line redefined the industry, while his work in aviation revolutionized domestic air travel and expanded operations across West Africa.

“He was a pioneer in every sense, shaping the landscape of Ghana’s shipping and aviation industries,” Sam Jonah noted.

“From establishing Antrak Shipping Line to revolutionising domestic air travel and expanding his airline operations across West Africa, he demonstrated an unwavering belief in the power of African enterprise.”

Alhaji Banda’s vision extended beyond West Africa - he had dreams of taking his airline operations to the Middle East and across the continent. His boldness and foresight set him apart, making him a formidable figure in the business world.

Sam Jonah recounted Alhaji Banda’s audacious bid to take over Ghana Airways during his tenure as Chairman of the airline. “

He saw potential where others saw decline. He was a man who believed in the strength of Ghanaian ingenuity and the possibilities of a thriving national airline. Unfortunately, as has happened to many before him, his entanglement with politics proved costly.”

Read also: Sam Jonah eulogises close friend Alhaji Asoma Banda

The intersection of business and politics, Sam Jonah noted, remains a challenge in Ghana, often stifling innovation and progress.

Alhaji Banda’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for future entrepreneurs navigating the complex landscape of national development.

Yet, Alhaji Banda’s legacy is not solely defined by his business achievements. He was a man of wisdom, a historian in his own right, and a mentor to many.

He believed that success was not the preserve of the formally educated but of those who were willing to learn, adapt, and persist against all odds.

“His story is one of inspiration to every young Ghanaian who dares to dream. He proved that success is not confined to those with extensive formal education,” Sam Jonah wrote.

“He embodied the true essence of learning, recognising that knowledge is acquired not only in classrooms but through experience, curiosity, and an unrelenting drive to succeed.”

Alhaji Banda’s humility was a hallmark of his character.

He took pride in his origins, never shying away from sharing his story as a testament to what perseverance and vision can achieve.

His life serves as a beacon of hope for the next generation of African entrepreneurs.

“Ghana and Africa owe Alhaji Asuma Banda a debt of gratitude. He was a pathfinder, creating opportunities where none existed, proving that African entrepreneurs can build world-class enterprises,” Sam Jonah said.

As Ghana bids farewell to this extraordinary man, Sam Jonah urged that his legacy be celebrated and not just mourned.

“Let his story be a beacon of hope to the next generation of entrepreneurs. Let his resilience, his vision, and his unshakable belief in African enterprise continue to inspire.”