The name Samuel Kumi-Gyau has become synonymous with Gold Coast Tokota, a leading sustainable shoe-making company based in Ghana, as well as business practices that advocate for climate action and economic empowerment.
“We believe in the power of innovation to create a better future. Our eco-friendly footwear, crafted with care and sustainability at its core, embodies our mission of delivering happy feet for a happier planet,” says Samuel, founder and chief executive officer of the company.
“Through our commitment to sustainability, we reduce our environmental impact while empowering marginalized communities with meaningful economic opportunities. We are not just making shoes; we are leaving footprints of positive change — one step at a time.”
African-Inspired Footwear
Established in 2023, Gold Coast Tokota produces African-inspired slippers, shoes, and Ahenema (the iconic sandals traditionally worn by Ghanaian royalty). The company’s footwear is crafted from upcycled materials, such as textile waste and repurposed car tyres.
However, the company’s mission goes beyond just creating stylish footwear. Samuel is committed to promoting sustainability, empowering local artisans, and supporting the African economy by providing eco-friendly products to both African communities and the diaspora.
Through Gold Coast Tokota, Samuel’s vision is to bring African craftsmanship and environmental responsibility into the global market.
Entrepreneurial Drive
Samuel, who successfully completed a business administration degree after studying at the famed Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in 2017, says he decided to venture into the footwear-making business after an “unfortunate personal experience.”
“Before I completed my degree, I was given some sandals that were so special to me that I decided to wear them only during special occasions so they wouldn’t get worn out too quickly.
“One day, I had the opportunity to meet one of my mentors, and I decided I would wear the sandals for that special day. Sadly, the sandals were of poor quality. It was so bad that I spent so much time trying to fix them, I ended up failing to meet my mentor.”
It was that experience that sowed the seeds of entrepreneurship in Samuel, who decided to broaden his horizons by learning as much as he could about African culture.
“In 2022, I told myself I would start a locally made footwear brand. I traveled to South Africa that same year to gain a better understanding of our African culture. The idea was to make African-inspired footwear.”
Huge Demand
Effective market research and excellent marketing strategies on the part of Samuel and his team have resulted in a high demand for Gold Coast Tokota’s footwear, both in Africa and other parts of the world.
The company’s Ahenema sandals, for example, have become their flagship product after proving very popular among customers from Ghana, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and other countries.
“We have made over 2,500 units of slippers that we have been able to sell in Europe, Asia, and Africa. We started the business in Ghana, but we are now all over.
“The idea, as we move forward, is to have satellite shops in cities like Nairobi, London, and even Miami so that our products can reach more people.”
Driving Change Through Innovation
Samuel has a global perspective and a passion for driving change through innovative solutions. It is for this reason that Gold Coast Tokota merges economic empowerment with climate action.
The 33-year-old entrepreneur has also participated in renowned accelerators such as Blocks of Change in Germany and Orange Corners in the Netherlands, among others. His academic foundation in business administration equips him with the expertise to navigate and excel in the business ecosystem.
Driven by his unwavering commitment to economic development for marginalized communities, Samuel combines creativity and advocacy to tackle pressing global issues. His work with Gold Coast Tokota not only champions sustainable fashion but also empowers artisans and promotes fair labor practices.
Samuel’s expertise and dedication have positioned him as a sought-after SME coach and business mentor. His unique approach to blending entrepreneurship with social and environmental impact continues to inspire and transform lives, making him a leading voice in sustainable fashion and advocacy across Africa and beyond.
Looking Beyond Challenges
Samuel’s expansion goals for Gold Coast Tokota involve selling his products in the South African market. Cognizant of the challenges he faces along with his team, Samuel is well aware of the hard work that lies ahead.
“The leather and crafts industry has many challenges. African products, generally, are perceived as lower in quality, and this makes it very difficult to penetrate lucrative markets.
“Additionally, production is low because our products are handmade. The idea going forward is to incorporate machines into our work so that we can produce more products for our markets.”
Samuel can draw strength from the milestones he has achieved so far. It is the positive impact he has had on his community that gives him the zeal and passion to go on.
“When we started off, we had just five workers. Today, we have fifteen workers, including many young people, women, and people living with disabilities. This is something I am very proud of achieving.
“Over the years, we have also contributed to a better environment. We have used five tonnes of tyres and jeans to make footwear. We are preventing water and air pollution one shoe at a time.”
