The Passing of a Great Ghanaian Icon
The Safo family and the Kristo Asafo Church have confirmed the passing of Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, one of Ghana’s most respected inventors, entrepreneurs, and religious leaders.
Popularly known as “Kantanka, the African Star”, he died peacefully on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at the age of 77.
His daughter, Sarah Adwoa Safo (Esq.), former MP for Dome Kwabenya, signed a family statement describing him as “a true genius, a beacon of hope, and a father to the fatherless.”
A Life of Faith and Innovation
Born on August 26, 1948, in Bom near Kensere in the Ashanti Region, Apostle Safo grew from humble beginnings into one of Ghana’s most innovative minds. He was the founder of the Kantanka Group, a multi-sector business empire, and Kantanka Automobile in 1994 – the company that built Ghana’s first locally manufactured car.
His inventions, aimed at promoting self-reliance, included locally-made car engines, SUVs, limousines, voice-controlled electronics, solar-powered devices, and a light helicopter.
Beyond technology, he was a profound spiritual leader. Apostle Safo founded the Kristo Asafo Mission in 1971, which today has over 130 branches in Ghana and beyond, blending faith with practical development.
Awards and Recognition
Apostle Safo received numerous national and international awards for his pioneering work, including the Order of the Volta (2007), the Grand Medal (2000), the Millennium Excellence Award (2005), and an Innovative Pioneer Award in the UK (2017).
He also received prestigious honorary academic titles, such as Emeritus Professor of Engineering from Alfred Nobel University, Ukraine.
Legacy and Impact
Apostle Safo was more than an inventor; he was a national icon. He created jobs for thousands of Ghanaians, trained young innovators at his technology center, and inspired a continent to believe in its own potential.
His work embodied Kwame Nkrumah’s vision of African industrialization, seamlessly merging technology, faith, and social development. His legacy is one of boundless innovation, deep faith, and unwavering patriotism.
The Safo family has asked for privacy during this time of mourning. Burial and funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.
RIP, LEGEND… May your soul rest in peace