Nana Kwame Bediako, widely known as Freedom Jacob Caesar or Cheddar, has carved a multifaceted identity as a Ghanaian businessman, philanthropist, and the founder of the Kwarleyz Group.
Specializing in real estate and property management in Ghana, Bediako has recently made headlines as the leader of the emerging political force, the New Force movement.
Under the Kwarleyz Group umbrella, Bediako oversees a diverse array of entities, including Petronia (Petronia City in the Western Region), Wonda World (a developer), New Africa Construction (contractor), BELFAST (city management and property management), and the New Africa Foundation (a civil society organization).
Expressing his political aspirations, Bediako aims to become the President of Ghana, envisioning a future where he creates thousands of entrepreneurs and elevates Ghana to a middle-income country.
The New Force movement, which currently boasts approximately 150 billboards across Ghana, serves as the platform for his independent candidacy in the 2024 presidential election.
Contrary to some public speculation, Bediako clarified that the New Force is not a political party but a movement. In an interview, he stated, “I am not a politician, but a voice from above told me to run for President.”
The revelation of Bediako as the face behind the New Force movement occurred on January 7, 2024, dispelling earlier speculation about his involvement. Addressing the public's curiosity, he explained the significance of his three names—Nana Kwame Bediako, Cheddar, and Freedom Jacob Caesar—as representing different aspects of his persona.
“Nana Kwame Bediako is more of the corporate guy, who is more interested in investments and development. Cheddar is just a street nickname that means money in the rap industry and connects more with the youth. Freedom Jacob Caesar is very enigmatic, a character I created to introduce Africa to the world, portraying Africa as royalty,” he elaborated.
Born in Asokwa, Kumasi, Ghana, Bediako attended Accra Academy and Apam Secondary School before pursuing further education in the United Kingdom at Waltham Forest College.
His business journey began during his university days when he started with ventures such as selling clothes and running a poultry business.
Reflecting on his early business ventures, Bediako highlighted his entry into the telecommunications industry in 1999, founding Global Telecommunications and Utilities (GTU), a company billing individuals for internet usage. After returning to Ghana in 2001, he ventured into the nightclub scene with Temptations in Osu, Accra.
Bediako's foray into real estate was motivated by his experience renting a place for Temptations. With an initial capital of £20,000, earned from his business ventures in the UK, he made significant strides in real estate, eventually establishing the Kwarleyz Group with diverse interests.
Addressing his political activities, Bediako officially announced his presidential candidacy on January 7, 2024, emphasizing his mission to contribute value to humanity.
Despite his business successes, he cited philanthropic efforts under the New Africa Foundation and the consistent payment of around 300 workers every month under the Kwarleyz Group as examples of his leadership track record.
In his personal life, Nana Kwame Bediako is married to Ruby Bediako, and together they have four children.