A tribute to Alhaji Asoma Banda, a pioneering figure in Africa’s shipping and logistics industry, who passed away on March 1, 2025, at the age of 92. Banda, raised in a family involved in the trucking business, initially struggled in the trade but later found success by innovating within the shipping sector. He established OT Africa Line (OTAL) in 1975, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of container shipping in Africa. His innovation, including the use of roll-on-roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels to address port congestion in Nigeria, made OTAL one of the region’s largest shipping lines.
Banda’s defiance against global shipping alliances, particularly the European “40:40:20” cargo sharing rule, helped African lines like OTAL gain better access to quality cargo. Despite facing significant challenges, including legal battles over monopolistic practices, OTAL maintained its position in the industry until 1999. Banda’s vision also extended beyond shipping to include terminal management, inland transportation, and door-to-door services. His contributions have made shipping more affordable, transforming the economies of African nations and enabling firms to expand internationally.
Today, the container, which Banda helped popularize, is widely repurposed across industries for various uses, including affordable housing and mobile repair units. The text concludes with a personal reflection from the author, who met Banda during an internship, and offers prayers for Banda’s eternal peace.
The tribute emphasizes Alhaji Asoma Banda’s lasting legacy in transforming Africa’s shipping industry, improving trade, and contributing to the continent’s economic growth.
