Komla Afeke Dumor, born in Accra, Ghana, came from a distinguished family background, with his father being a sociology professor and his mother holding a master's degree in Mass Communication. He pursued studies in pre-clinical medicine in Nigeria before returning to Ghana for medical studies, eventually obtaining a BSc. in Sociology and Psychology from the University of Ghana and a Master's of Public Administration from Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government. He had notable siblings, including his sister, Mawuena Trebarh, who served as the former CEO of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), and his brother, Dr. Korshie Dumor, a medical doctor practicing in the United States.

Komla Afeke Dumor, a renowned journalist, began his career as a morning show host for Joy FM in Accra, Ghana, and later joined the BBC African Service in London, where he hosted various programs and became a lead presenter for BBC World, earning recognition as one of the 100 most influential Africans of 2013. Throughout his career, he conducted significant interviews and covered major events, such as the 2010 World Cup, President Barack Obama's trip to Africa, and Nelson Mandela's funeral.

Dumor tied the knot with Kwansema Quansah in 2001, and together they had three children: Elinam, Elorn, and Efika Aruba. While Dumor was of Ewe descent, his widow, Kwansema Quansah, is of Fante ethnicity.

Komla Dumor passed away from a heart attack on January 18, 2014, at his residence in Rickmansworth, just a day after his last on-air appearance, receiving praise from Ghana's President John Mahama, who hailed him as an outstanding broadcaster and a valuable representative of Ghana to the world. Following his death, his body was brought back to Ghana and received with solemn ceremonies in Accra, where funeral services were held from February 21 to 23, 2014.