Popular Ghanaian business mogul Stephen Boateng, widely known as Kwabena Kesse or simply Kessben, has been reported dead.

News of his reported passing emerged on Thursday, August 20, 2026, sending shockwaves across the Ashanti Region, where he was based and built much of his business empire.

The cause of death has not yet been disclosed, and details surrounding his reported death remain unclear.

Kessben was a prominent entrepreneur and the founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Kessben Group of Companies, a diversified Ghanaian business conglomerate with interests spanning media, education, hospitality, finance, travel and tours, shipping, real estate and other sectors.

BREAKING: Ghanaian business mogul Stephen Boateng 'Kessben' is dead - Reports

The Kessben Group has operated several businesses, including Kessben FM, Kessben TV, Aseda TV, Kessben University College, Kessben Travel and Tours, Kessben Driving School, Kessben Shipping, Forwarding and Trading, Fosua Hotel and Multi Credit Savings and Loans.

Kessben also established Kessben University College, which began as Kessben College. The institution describes him as its founder and Chancellor.

Before becoming a major businessman, Stephen Boateng trained as a teacher and later ventured into business, initially dealing in imported electrical appliances. He subsequently expanded into several sectors, building what became the Kessben Group.

His academic background included a first-class degree in Economics and Law and an MBA in Finance from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). He was also called to the Ghana Bar in 2022, becoming a professional lawyer.

Beyond his business activities, Kessben was known for his involvement in education, media and philanthropy. His businesses and initiatives have contributed to employment and provided platforms in the media and education sectors, particularly in the Ashanti Region.

His media operations, including Kessben FM, Kessben TV and Aseda TV, have established a strong presence in Ghana’s broadcasting landscape, particularly in Kumasi.

Further details about his reported passing, including arrangements to commemorate his life, are expected to emerge as family and associates make official announcements.