Kayobi - pronounced (K – OW – B) is an apparel and accessories company created to tell the African story and that of the Diaspora through positive, vibrant and thought provoking imagery.

The word ‘Kayobi’ translates from Japanese as ‘Tuesday’, this is in reference to my name Kwabena Oppong Boateng. Kwabena is the Twi name given to a child born on a Tuesday in the Akan Tribes of Ghana, coincidentally ‘Kayobi’ sounded phonetically similar to my initials ‘KOB’. Why a Japanese word? I have always had a love for the Japanese design and art aesthetic ‘kayobi’ therefore was the perfect play on words.

Founded in Accra Ghana on 08/08/08 the collection has evolved from a T- Shirt line to include bags and cases hand printed in Accra and London. Our first collection ‘it’s always Summer in Africa’ was created during my year and a half resettlement in Ghana where I was inspired to create a brand that truly captured the essence of Africa.

Contrary to the imposed label of ‘dark continent’ stamped on Africa, the continent is actually bursting with light, life, beauty and most importantly HOPE.
With an abundance of colour we have created a visual journey through daily African life ranging from childhood nostalgia, socio – political issues, music, culture, traditional art and food.