From the bustling streets of Asafo in Kumasi to the forefront of Ghana’s political communication and disability advocacy, Kwasi Kyei has lived a life defined by resilience, creativity, service and unwavering commitment to family and nation.
Born to Mr. Thomas Ernest Kyei and Madam Akosua Konadu both trained education officers, Kwasi Kyei traces his paternal roots to Asante Akyem Agogo and his maternal lineage to Atwima Kwanwoma in the Ashanti Region. Today at 68 years of age he remains an influential figure in fashion, politics and disability advocacy.
Growing up at Asafo in Kumasi, education and discipline formed the foundation of his upbringing. His father a respected educationist and pioneer bookseller, established one of the earliest bookshops in the Ashanti Region while his mother dedicated her life to teaching. Their philosophy was simple: every child should either excel academically or master a trade.
“My parents gave us only two choices, go to school seriously or learn a skill seriously,” Kwasi Kyei recalls.
His educational journey took him through Asem Government Boys School near the then Kumasi Polytechnic, State Experimental School, Kumasi Academy, Osei Tutu Secondary School and finally Juaben Secondary School, where he completed his secondary education.
At the age of four, Kwasi Kyei contracted polio, a challenge that could have defined his limitations but instead revealed his extraordinary talent. During school breaks, while friends played, he immersed himself in art, portrait painting and sculpture. His passion eventually evolved into fashion design where he found his true calling.
Over the years, he built a successful career in fashion, training numerous apprentices who have gone on to establish thriving businesses and support their own families.
“My greatest joy is seeing people I trained now living successful lives,” he says proudly.
Beyond fashion, politics became part of his life from childhood. His family home at Asafo served as a meeting point for prominent members of the former United Party (UP), where leading political figures frequently met his father. Listening to discussions involving personalities such as Victor Owusu and Dr. Asafo-Adjei ignited his passion for politics at an early age.
He later became deeply involved in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), serving as Subin Constituency Communications Director for four years before rising to become Ashanti Regional Communications Director for eight years. He played an active role during the historic campaign that brought former President John Agyekum Kufuor to power after decades of opposition politics.
The day Kufuor was sworn into office remains one of his most unforgettable memories.
“It was a moment of joy and hope for many Ghanaians. We celebrated together, believing we had entered a new era.”
Throughout his political journey, Kwasi Kyei worked closely with several leading figures including Hon. Isaac Oseiwhom he describes as his mentor, as well as Chairman Wontumi and other prominent party executives.
Today, he serves as the National Coordinator for Persons with Disability of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), advocating for inclusion and equal opportunities for persons living with disabilities.
Away from politics and fashion, Kwasi Kyei takes immense pride in fatherhood. Despite balancing business and political responsibilities, he always made time for his children, often working on fashion projects at night while dedicating his daytime to politics and family.
“I made sure I had time for my work and also for my children. I took them out often and gave them guidance whenever I had the opportunity.”
His philosophy of parenting emphasizes communication over corporal punishment.
“I never believed in beating children. Body language, conversation and guidance are more powerful. When you discipline your child, draw them closer afterwards. Your children should not fear you.”
He believes one of the greatest responsibilities of every father is mentorship, adding that the advice parents give their children often shapes their future more than material possessions.
Kwasi Kyei also reflects on marriage and family life with remarkable honesty, stressing that patience remains the foundation of every successful home.
“Marriage brings together two people from different backgrounds. It takes understanding and patience to build a lasting home.”
His life lessons are equally practical. He believes planning is essential for success and often reminds young people that financial prosperity is not determined by income alone but by wise management.
“All that glitters is not gold. Be content with what you have. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.”
As the world celebrate father’s day, Kwasi Kyei extends warm wishes to fathers across the country, acknowledging the sacrifices men make in raising families and supporting communities.
He also paid tribute to his late father for laying the foundation of discipline and education that shaped his life, while recognizing former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, party executives and supporters whose leadership inspired his political journey.
Looking ahead with optimism, he expressed hope that the New Patriotic Party would once again return to power under the leadership of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
For Kwasi Kyei, however, titles and positions matter less than legacy. He hopes to be remembered as a father, mentor, fashion designer and public servant whose greatest gift was empowering others.
“My children will remember the advice I gave them and the time I spent with them. Success is not about wealth alone—it is about the lives you impact.”
Indeed, the story of Kwasi Kyei is one of perseverance, service and purpose, a life proving that disability is not inability and that dedication to family, profession and country can leave an enduring legacy for generations to come.
By: Michael Walier
