By:Kenneth Appiah Bani
A new chapter in Ghana’s cultural and tourism landscape was written today with the grand opening of the Despite Automobile Museum, the nation’s first-ever world-class car museum and only the third of its kind on the African continent.
Located in the heart of East Legon, Accra, the museum is the brainchild of renowned Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist Dr. Osei Kwame Despite. It was officially commissioned by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who graced the event as the special guest of honour.
The Despite Automobile Museum is more than just a gallery of fine cars it is a curated celebration of automotive history, craftsmanship, and technological innovation. Housing an impressive collection of rare, vintage, and luxury automobiles, the museum offers visitors a unique blend of nostalgia and modernity. From classic models that shaped early road travel to iconic supercars that define contemporary luxury, each exhibit tells a story of speed, elegance, and engineering mastery.
In his keynote speech, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II lauded the initiative as a “monument to excellence and vision,” noting that it would inspire generations of Ghanaians to appreciate the intersection between history, innovation, and aesthetics. After the ceremony, His Majesty took a personal tour of the museum, expressing admiration for its architecture, curation, and mission.
The opening ceremony drew a distinguished assembly of guests from various walks of life, underlining the significance of the occasion. In attendance were traditional leaders, political dignitaries, diplomats, business tycoons, and celebrities. Prominent figures included Johnson Asiedu Nketia (National Chairman of the NDC), Julius Debrah (former Chief of Staff), Dr. Lesley Achiaa Agyapong (Ghana’s Ambassador to Russia), Kennedy Agyapong (former MP), Ibrahim Mahama (entrepreneur), and Nana Akomea (former MP).
Dr. Osei Kwame Despite, speaking at the launch, emphasized that the museum is designed not only for automobile lovers but also as an educational and tourism hub. “It is our hope that this place will serve as a centre of learning and inspiration for young minds, families, and tourists from across the world,” he said.
The museum’s opening marks a significant leap for automotive tourism in West Africa, placing Ghana firmly on the global map as a destination where history, heritage, and luxury intersect. With its world-class standards, the Despite Automobile Museum is poised to become a cultural landmark and a source of national pride.
Video credit: Despite Media
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