Born in May 1933 to royal lineage in Juaben and Bamang, Edward Osei Boakye overcame early challenges, including the loss of his father, to become one of Ghana’s most influential entrepreneurs. After studying at Baldwin-Wallace College in Ohio, he returned to Ghana in 1959 and, at just 26 years old, founded the United Mattress and Foam Company Ltd.
At a time when mattresses were luxury imports, Boakye revolutionized the industry by assembling the Vono brand of mattresses for schools and hospitals. Later, he acquired the State Furniture and Joinery Centre, which allowed him to manufacture cost-effective, locally branded mattresses under the famous “Goodnight, Sleep Well” slogan.
Business Expansion and Innovation
Boakye’s ambition extended beyond Ghana. Through strategic partnerships with Vitafoam of Nigeria and the West Africa Foam Company, he expanded his operations across West Africa, including The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria. His entrepreneurial reach also extended to Europe and the United States, where he diversified into retail, textiles, and real estate development.
In the 1970s, he demonstrated his commitment to social impact by constructing Ghana’s first fully-serviced private hospital, which later became the state-owned Police Hospital. He also spearheaded commercial property developments and had visionary plans for a drive-in shopping mall at the Holy Gardens – Kwame Nkrumah Circle.
Challenges and Resilience
Boakye’s remarkable journey faced major setbacks when Ghana underwent political turmoil. During the PNDC regime, he was accused of various infractions, including tax-related offenses, forcing him into exile in the UK. Despite these challenges, he rebuilt his business empire abroad, securing a grant from the British government to establish a mattress factory in Ireland and engaging in UK politics.
Determined to clear his name, Boakye returned to Ghana in the early 1990s and testified at the National Reconciliation Commission in the 2000s. His perseverance led him to reopen another mattress factory in Kumasi in 2003, though a devastating fire halted full-scale production. Nevertheless, his unwavering determination saw him continue operations in a limited capacity while expanding his real estate investments.
A Legacy of Hard Work and Generosity
Boakye was renowned for his relentless work ethic, astute business acumen, and philanthropic heart. Rising before dawn, he embodied discipline and commitment, channeling his success into charitable causes. Through the Edward Osei Boakye Trust Fund, he ensured that his wealth would continue serving society long after his passing.
Today, Ghana’s thriving mattress industry stands as a testament to his vision. From pioneering affordable, locally made mattresses to shaping industries across West Africa, Edward Osei Boakye’s legacy lives on. His life story is a powerful reminder that resilience, innovation, and a deep love for one’s country can create an enduring impact.
Through the E.O. Boakye Trust Fund, his legacy continues—supporting healthcare, education, and social initiatives that uplift communities and transform lives.