Kwame Osei-Manu

Biography of Kwame Osei Manu (formerly Kwame Nkrumah)

Kwame Osei Manu, originally named Kwame Nkrumah, was born on June 20, 1956, in the historic town of

Ahenkro, located in Ghana’s Ashanti Region. He was the ninth child of Yaw Yeboah and Yaa Fosuah,

both proud natives of Ahenkro. His mother named him Kwame Nkrumah to commemorate his

position as the ninth-born—a name holding deep personal significance.

Kwame’s early education reflected his adaptability and eagerness to learn. He began nursery school

in Kumasi at Children's Nursery School, continued Primary 1–4 at South Suntreso SDA, and

completed Primary 4–6 and Middle School at Ahenkro LA Primary. He attended Ashanti Collegiate in

Kumasi for Forms 1 and 2, and completed Forms 3–5 at Dwamena Akenten Secondary School in

Offinso.

With a strong desire to pursue further education abroad, Kwame made several attempts to study in

the United States. Despite repeated visa denials, he remained undeterred and eventually traveled to

Europe, where he spent several years working hard to make ends meet. These years shaped his

entrepreneurial spirit and perseverance.

Upon returning to Ghana, Kwame established his own business, importing cars, car parts, and tires

from Europe. His ventures bridged international trade and local needs, earning him respect as a

savvy and determined businessman.

In 1987, in Accra, shortly after returning from Germany, he met his wife, Gladys Osei Manu, whom he

married in 1993.

In 1998, a life-changing event occurred when Kwame won the American lottery. He moved to the

United States with his eldest son and settled in Houston, Texas. His first job was at Oak Farms’

production warehouse, where he worked diligently to build a stable future. During this time, he also

supported his sister by helping at Makola Imports, demonstrating his strong family values and

commitment.

In 1999, his two other sons joined him in the U.S., reinforcing his resolve to provide for his

expanding family. To support them, he took on a demanding job aboard a merchant ship in Alaska,

enduring long, isolating months at sea. His greatest hope was to secure a job that allowed him to

return home each day and be present for his children.

That hope was realized in 2000 when he began working at Kirby Petroleum. During this period, he

fought tirelessly to bring his wife and remaining children in Ghana to join him, a goal he achieved in

2005. He remained a loyal and hardworking employee at Kirby until 2016, after which he continued

his career at Petro Chem Services until his passing.

Kwame Osei was a devoted father to eight children, though his family suffered the profound loss of

one child at the age of nine. His life was characterized by sacrifice, love, and resilience. From the

dusty roads of Ahenkro to the bustling streets of Houston, his journey was one of perseverance,

purpose, and faith.

His legacy is one of dedication, endurance, and unconditional love—for his children, his family, and

the many lives he touched with humility and grace.

Though he is no longer with us, we believe God has called him to a higher purpose in heaven. Our

hearts are heavy with sorrow, and we will miss him deeply, but we find comfort in knowing that

heaven rejoices to have him home.

Rest well, Kwame. Until we meet again.