Introduction
Mr. Ebenezer Kofi Sampong Bediako was a man whose life and career left an indelible mark on his family, community, and the nation of Ghana.
Born in Mpraeso, Kwahu, on March 5, 1935, Mr. Bediako dedicated his life to service, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy.
His story is one of perseverance, faith, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those around him.
From his early beginnings as a professional driver to becoming a successful businessman, Mr. Bediako exemplified hard work, integrity, and deep devotion to God.
This profile provides a comprehensive look at his remarkable journey, highlighting the key aspects of his life and career.
Early Life and Education (1935-1952)
Mr. Bediako was born into a family that valued education and hard work. His father, Opanyin Kwame Sampong, and his mother, Madam Abena Gyemfa, played significant roles in shaping his early years.
He grew up in Mpraeso, where he began his education at the Mpraeso Presbyterian Junior Primary School. At the age of eleven, he moved to Agona Swedru to live with his senior brother, Akoto Bamfo, who was then the manager of UAC at Agona Swedru.
He continued his education at Agona Swedru Presbyterian Primary School until he fell seriously ill, which forced him to return to Mpraeso. Despite these challenges, Mr. Bediako persevered and completed his middle school education at Mpraeso Presbyterian Middle School in 1952.
Even at a young age, Mr. Bediako demonstrated a strong sense of responsibility. He helped his mother with her trading business by carrying foodstuffs such as pepper, okra, and palm oil to the market every day. Reflecting on his early life, Mr. Bediako noted, “I assisted my mother, Madam Abena Gyemfa, who was a petty trader. I usually helped by carrying these items to the market each morning and back in the evening.” This experience helped shape his work ethic and commitment to supporting his family.
Life After School and Professional Driving Career (1952)
After completing his middle school education, Mr. Bediako pursued a career as a professional driver, a highly regarded profession at the time. He was trained by Master Darkwah, an experienced driver known for his professionalism.
Mr. Bediako quickly earned a reputation for his skill and dedication, and within a short time, he became a professional driver. His first vehicle was a Morris Oxford car, which he used to transport passengers between Mpraeso and Nkawkaw.
Passengers preferred waiting for Mr. Bediako’s well-maintained and polished car over others, earning him the nickname “Ey3 f3,” meaning “It’s beautiful,” a phrase he often used in admiration of his car.
His attention to detail and customer service set him apart from other drivers in the area. “Because of the care I took of my car, as well as my professionalism, passengers would always prefer waiting for me rather than join other vehicles,” he recalled with pride.
Transition to Business and the Founding of Bediako Brothers Pharmacy
In the early 1960s, Mr. Bediako’s business acumen began to shine through. His senior brother, Mr. E.S. Bamfo, invited him to join him in Accra to work in his canvassing and supply business.
With seed capital from the sale of his car and support from his mother, Mr. Bediako relocated to Accra and began working in the supply business.
He dealt in medicines and provisions, working with major companies like G.B. Ollivant and Paterson Zochonis. His hard work and dedication paid off, and he eventually opened his own shop around Granville Avenue and Okaishie in Accra.
Bediako Brothers Pharmacy Limited was born out of Mr. Bediako’s vision and determination. The pharmacy grew to become a successful enterprise with branches in Nkawkaw and Kwame Nkrumah Circle. His younger brother, Kofi Badu, played a significant role in the expansion of the business, traveling long distances to distribute medicines.
Mr. Bediako’s commitment to his family and his business was evident throughout his career, as he worked tirelessly to ensure the success of both.
Christian Life and Philanthropy
Mr. Bediako was deeply rooted in his Christian faith, having been baptized in the Presbyterian Church in 1946. His faith was a driving force behind his many philanthropic endeavors.
He supported his local church, the Alajo Presbyterian Church, and was instrumental in expanding and renovating the church building.
Later in life, he returned to the Presbyterian Church after a brief period of fellowshipping with Royal House Chapel, where he helped establish a branch at Mpraeso.
Mr. Bediako’s generosity extended beyond his church to his community. One of his most significant contributions was the construction of a three-floor building in Mpraeso to house his mother and siblings. This building also provided space for the Ghana Commercial Bank, the first bank to serve the people of Kwahu.
Additionally, Mr. Bediako donated medicine to Atibie Hospital and provided accommodations for nurses and attendants, free of rent for over forty years. His actions earned him recognition from the city authorities of Accra, who named a street after him in Alajo—Bediako Street.
Reflecting on his life of service, Mr. Bediako said, “I say this as a source of encouragement to others, knowing well that if God is not with you, you cannot fulfill your God-given purpose in life.”
Social Responsibility and Legacy
Mr. Bediako’s impact on his community cannot be overstated. From providing essential services to supporting education, healthcare, and infrastructure, he was a pillar of support to many.
He took a keen interest in the education of his children and other family members, famously sponsoring eleven wards in one academic year at Mpraeso Secondary School.
His business, Bediako Brothers Pharmacy Limited, became a household name, and his philanthropic efforts improved the lives of countless individuals.
Conclusion
Mr. Ebenezer Kofi Sampong Bediako’s life was one of devotion—to his family, his work, and his faith. He built a legacy of service and success that continues to inspire those who knew him.
His story is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and faith in God. As Mr. Bediako himself stated, “I believe all these activities were the doing of the Good Lord Yahweh, who carries us through life’s journey.”
His life serves as a beacon of hope and an example of how one individual, guided by faith and determination, can make a lasting impact on their community and beyond.
Reference: https://esbediako.com/index.php/biography/
Inspiring Net 