Ghana is in mourning following the peaceful passing of Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, one of the country’s most prominent inventors, pastors, philanthropists, and industrialists.
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He died on Thursday, 11 September 2025, at the age of 77. His family, the Kristo Asafo Church, and the wider Ghanaian community have confirmed his death, marking the end of an era for indigenous innovation and faith-leadership in Ghana.
Early Life and Calling
Apostle Safo Kantanka was born on 26 August 1948 in Bekwai, Ashanti Region. He grew up with a natural curiosity for technology, engineering, and design. From young, he demonstrated inventive talent—crafting models, using basic materials, and tinkering with things that ignited his creative mind. Over the years, this curiosity evolved into his life’s work.
He founded the Kristo Asafo Mission, a faith ministry that not only proclaimed the Christian message but also served as a platform for his industrial and technological work. Through this organization, Apostle Safo sought to blend spiritual calling with ingenuity, emphasizing that faith and innovation could, together, transform lives.
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Kantanka: Engineering a Local Legacy
Perhaps Apostle Safo’s most visible legacy is the Kantanka Group of Companies—especially Kantanka Automobile. Under his leadership, Kantanka aimed to manufacture vehicles adapted to Ghana’s environmental and road conditions, fostering home-grown solutions rather than relying solely on imports.
Over decades, he built a brand that stood for local manufacturing, Ghanaian creativity, and technological independence. Kantanka produced SUVs, pickups, and other vehicles often discussed for their bold design and intent to ground automobile manufacturing in domestic innovation. He also expanded into electronics, agriculture, and community development, consistently promoting the idea that Ghana—and Africa—possesses the capacity to create, invent, and lead.
A Life of Faith, Innovation and Philanthropy
Beyond industry, Apostle Safo was a man of deep faith and generosity. As founder of Kristo Asafo Mission, he was seen as a spiritual shepherd to many. His teachings, sermons, and spiritual leadership touched thousands of lives. Simultaneously, his inventions and business ventures provided employment, skill development, and hope—especially among youth interested in science, engineering, and entrepreneurship.
He was widely recognized as a person who bridged the gap between the spiritual and the technological. His contributions extended far beyond preaching; his life inspired others to believe in the possibility of home-grown solutions and the dignity of self-reliance.
National Impact and Recognition
Apostle Safo’s passing has drawn tributes from across all sectors. Political leaders, fellow inventors, faith communities, and citizens have expressed sorrow at the loss of someone many described as “the Star of Africa”—a title celebrating his pioneering role and national influence. His daughter, Sarah Adwoa Safo, former Member of Parliament, confirmed the death in an official statement, urging the family and the church community for privacy during this period of mourning.
Many have praised his persistence, courage, and determination. Associations and individuals have recognized that he lived a life marked by resilience—building industry in an environment often deemed difficult for locally made manufacturing.
Reactions from Leaders and Nation
Among those paying tribute is former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who described Apostle Safo as someone who “served Ghana beyond the capacity of a religious leader.” He noted that Safo not only preached faith but also embodied the virtues of ingenuity, hard work, and vision. He is remembered both as a preacher and an innovator who helped put Ghana on the map in terms of local industrial innovation.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) also expressed sorrow, highlighting Apostle Safo’s contributions to Ghana’s technological landscape and his role in motivating young inventors and local entrepreneurs.
Legacy
The Safo family has announced that funeral and burial arrangements will be duly communicated in the coming days. Details are being finalized, and the church and national authorities are expected to observe his passing with honours.
In the meantime, there is widespread agreement that Apostle Safo’s legacy will endure—through the cars he designed, the church he founded, the innovations he inspired, and the many lives he touched through faith and generosity.
Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka’s life represents a powerful message for Ghana and beyond:
- That local innovation is possible, even in difficult economic and infrastructural settings.
- That faith and work can coexist, and that spiritual leadership can also carry economic and social responsibility.
- That invention, courage, and purpose can inspire new generations toward science, engineering, entrepreneurship.
Ghana has lost a gallant son, but his story will continue to spark dreams and action among many who believe in the potential of African creativity and self-reliance.
