Henry Kwadwo Djaba, affectionately known as “I Shall Return”, was a distinguished post-independence Ghanaian industrialist, international businessman, astute politician, and philanthropist. Born on December 27, 1933, he left an indelible mark on Ghana’s business and political landscape until his passing on September 29, 2013.
Renowned for his Neoplan business in the 1950s, he was often seen wearing his signature Kente cloth, symbolizing his deep-rooted Ghanaian heritage. Beyond business, Mr. Djaba played a significant role in politics and sports, serving as the Chairman of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) from 1970 to 1972. As chairman, he worked tirelessly to uplift Ghanaian football, providing the Black Stars with the best equipment, jerseys, football boots, training, and coaching. His leadership helped nurture exceptional talents, including legendary goalkeeper Robert Mensah.
A Life of International Influence
Mr. Djaba was not only a Ghanaian entrepreneur but also an international businessman of Yilo Krobo descent from Somanya. His legacy extended beyond Ghana, as seen in his son, Henry Djaba Jr., a millionaire British businessman. In 2009, Henry Jr. made headlines when he was kidnapped at gunpoint in Tripoli by Libyan security forces and later sued the Libyan government under Colonel Gaddafi for £20 million.
Family and Personal Life
A man of great wealth and influence, Henry Kwadwo Djaba was married to 10 wives and fathered 24 children, many of whom have become successful professionals worldwide. Some of his notable children include:
1. Georgette Dede Djaba – UK-based Solicitor (BA Hons, LLB Hons, LLM)
2. Otiko Afisa Djaba – Former National Women’s Organiser, NPP, Ghana
3. Hans T. K. Djaba – MBA, Financial Adviser, Tullow Oil, Accra
4. Kelvin Sampson Djaba – Atlanta, USA (with three siblings)
5. Henry K. Djaba Jr. – Businessman, Chad
6. Daniel Peter Djaba – Financial Consultant, London, UK
7. Mrs. Nana Appiah – Building Contractor & Real Estate Consultant
8. Ms. Hetty Djabakor Djaba – Accountant, UK (and children)
9. Akuye Djaba – UK
10. Nene Djaba – Accra
11. Magnus Abraham Djaba – Saatchi & Saatchi, UK
12. Pascal Djaba – UK
13. Patsy Djaba – Engineer, Germany
14. Djabaki Sister Djaba – London
15. Henrietta Djaba – London
16. Jasmin Djaba – UK
17. Michael Djaba
18. Naa Dede Djaba – Accra
A Lasting Impact
Henry Kwadwo Djaba’s remarkable contributions to business, politics, and sports have left a lasting impact on Ghana. His dedication to progress, leadership in industry, and philanthropy earned him recognition even beyond his lifetime.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
