Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has paid an emotional and wide-ranging tribute to the late Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, hailing the legendary engineer, philanthropist, and spiritual leader as “a grace and a gift not just to his family, but to Ghana and the entire African continent”.
The tribute was delivered during a solemn courtesy visit at Mr. Kufuor’s Aburi residence, where Sarah Adwoa Safo, former Dome-Kwabenya MP and daughter of the late Apostle, led a delegation of the Safo family to formally inform the former President of the passing of their patriarch.
Apostle Safo, founder of the Kristo Asafo Mission and Kantanka Group of Companies, passed away in August 2024 at the age of 76 after decades of pioneering work in industry and technological innovation.
Celebrating a Visionary’s Lifelong Impact
Reflecting on Apostle Safo’s remarkable journey, Mr. Kufuor emphasized the universality of purpose and legacy, noting the late inventor’s profound spiritual and technological contributions.
“Apostle lived his life well and told his own story before his passing,” the former President remarked, underscoring the sense of fulfilment that defined the Apostle’s career and family life.
He praised the resilience and unity shown by the Safo family in the wake of their loss, adding:
“A grace and a gift not just to his family, but to Ghana and the entire African continent.”
Mr. Kufuor observed that Apostle Safo “nurtured his children well,” commending the next generation’s commitment to upholding his legacy.
Honouring a National Icon
During his presidency (2001–2009), Mr. Kufuor recognised Apostle Safo’s contribution to national development with a state award. Although the Apostle was unable to attend the ceremony, the President highlighted the significance of that national acknowledgement, noting that it reflected the broad impact of Safo’s decades of entrepreneurship and innovation.
Apostle Safo’s legacy is particularly evident in Ghana’s burgeoning automotive and technology sectors. The Kantanka Group’s achievements include the first locally assembled vehicles, a range of industrial machinery, and advanced agricultural equipment—milestones that have inspired a new generation of African innovators.
According to the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Kantanka’s operations have created more than 2,000 jobs and contributed to a 15% increase in domestic technology manufacturing since 2015.
Mr. Kufuor also recounted his attendance at one of Apostle Safo’s celebrated technology exhibitions in Gomoa in September 2024.
The event, which drew thousands of participants from across Ghana and abroad, showcased innovations in robotics, alternative energy, and agriculture, and highlighted what Mr. Kufuor described as the Apostle’s “global appeal.”
“How far his work and personality appealed globally,” the former President noted, referencing the international attention and partnerships sparked by Kantanka’s products.
A Call for a Dignified Farewell
Looking ahead, Mr. Kufuor pledged his personal support to the upcoming 40th Day observation for Apostle Safo, scheduled for the University of Ghana, Legon—a traditional milestone in Ghanaian funeral rites that marks the transition of a departed soul.
He urged the family to ensure that the late visionary is accorded a “dignified burial befitting his legacy,” reassuring them of his continued involvement in commemorative activities.
Family’s Response: Commitment to Legacy
Responding on behalf of the family, Sarah Adwoa Safo expressed deep appreciation for Mr. Kufuor’s enduring support, both in public life and in private counsel.
She affirmed the family’s resolve to rely on his “rich experience and guidance” as they work to preserve and advance their late father’s legacy.
Ms. Safo reiterated the family’s determination to strengthen the institutions and innovations inspired by Apostle Safo, reflecting the late patriarch’s belief in self-reliance, creativity, and national pride.
A Legacy of Innovation and Inspiration
Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka leaves behind a lasting legacy as one of Ghana’s foremost inventors, religious leaders, and advocates for African industrialization. His works in robotics, local automobile manufacturing, and agricultural technology have received global recognition, including features by the BBC and CNN, and have positioned Ghana as a rising player in Africa’s science and technology renaissance.
As preparations continue for his 40th Day memorial, tributes continue to pour in from across the continent, with leaders, engineers, and faith communities all acknowledging the indelible mark left by a man whose vision transcended borders and generations.
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