BY Daniel Bampoe
Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has joined the nation in mourning the passing of Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, the revered founder of the Kristo Asafo Mission and Ghana’s foremost indigenous innovator.
In a statement, Dr. Bawumia described the late Apostle Safo as a man who transcended the role of a religious leader to become a national treasure.
According to him, the “Star of Africa,” as Apostle Safo was popularly called, combined spirituality with technological ingenuity and philanthropy in ways that inspired generations of Ghanaians.
“I have received with deep sadness the news of the passing of Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, a pioneering Ghanaian innovator and the founder and leader of the Kristo Asafo Mission,” Bawumia wrote.
He added that Apostle Safo’s inventions and commitment to indigenous technology “forcefully inspired an industrial spirit amongst Ghanaians.”
Beyond his groundbreaking innovations in automobile manufacturing and industrial engineering, Apostle Safo was widely recognized for his humanitarian works.
Dr. Bawumia noted that his “numerous philanthropic endeavours improved the lives of the less privileged in society,” leaving a legacy of compassion and empowerment.
Reflecting on their personal encounters, the former Vice President revealed that the late Apostle’s wisdom and warmth left a lasting impression on him.
“Anytime I called on him, I departed his presence with lasting words of encouragement and wisdom,” he said.
On behalf of his family, Dr. Bawumia extended condolences to the bereaved family, the Kristo Asafo Mission, and the entire nation.
He prayed that Apostle Safo’s legacy would continue to inspire “future generations to believe in our domestic solutions, serve their communities, and put Ghana first.”
A National Loss
The Kristo Asafo Mission, together with the Safo family, officially announced the death of Apostle Safo on Thursday, September 11, 2025.
He passed away peacefully at the age of 77.
In a statement signed by Sarah Adwoa Safo, former Member of Parliament and daughter of the late Apostle, the family expressed profound sorrow and requested privacy during their period of mourning. “Ghana has indeed lost a gallant son and a true legend,” the statement read.
Popularly known as “Kantanka,” Apostle Safo was celebrated as a multi-talented figure—a religious leader, philanthropist, agriculturist, and industrialist.
His work with the Kantanka Group of Companies introduced locally manufactured vehicles, machinery, and other innovations that challenged the dominance of imported goods and championed African ingenuity.
Born in 1948, Apostle Safo rose from humble beginnings to become a symbol of resilience and determination.
His life story was shaped by struggles and perseverance, which he often credited as the foundation of his calling and convictions.
