Stephen Sakyi Kwofie

Ebusuapanyin Stephen Sakyi Kwofie, fondly known as Uncle Kofi, was born on June 9, 1939, in Agona Swedru. He was the youngest of ten children born to Mr. Kwame Sakyi Kwofie, a respected cocoa purchasing officer, and Mrs. Elizabeth Efua Afo Kwofie, both of blessed memory. His father played a significant role in founding the St. Anthony Catholic Church in Agona Swedru.

After losing his father at a tender age, Stephen’s mother entrusted his upbringing and education to his elder brother, Mr. John K. Kwofie. He was baptized at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Saltpond and attended Saltpond Catholic School for his elementary education, where he excelled academically. He later enrolled at Agona Swedru Central School of Commerce from 1949 to 1952, earning a qualification as a Secretary/Account Officer. His early education laid the foundation for a lifetime of learning and leadership.

Stephen started his professional journey in 1956 as an Account Officer at Kade ME Sackey Sawmill, where he displayed remarkable competence. Seeking better opportunities, he relocated to Kumasi in 1969 and secured a position as a Senior Account Officer at Ahwiaa Sawmill Ltd. His diligence, ability to work independently and commitment to excellence earned him a swift promotion to Production Manager, elevating him to senior management. He carried out his duty with excellence and dedication. Eager to enhance his knowledge, Stephen pursued further studies, obtaining additional certificates including MDPPI certificate. His outstanding performance at work led to his retention on contract even after retiring as Production Manager at Ahwiaa Sawmill.

Stephen’s work ethic and leadership skills earned him respect among colleagues and the community. He was known for his unwavering commitment to hard work, always striving to make a positive impact in every endeavor he undertook.

Despite Stephen’s demanding career, he skillfully balanced work and family life, ensuring his children always felt his presence.

As a father, he was a steadfast pillar of support, nurturing and guiding his children with love, patience, and wisdom. His devotion went beyond providing for their material needs; he prioritized their emotional well-being, personal and spiritual growth, offering them not only guidance but also the support needed to grow and thrive in an ever-changing world.

A staunch advocate for education, Stephen firmly believed in its transformative power. His well-known phrase, “Even if it’s left with my shirt, I will sell it to educate my children,” underscored his deep commitment to learning. He encouraged all family members to prioritize their children’s education, recognizing it as the key to success. His generosity extended beyond his immediate family, offering support to relatives in need of educational assistance. Many scholars within the family today attribute their achievements to his invaluable contributions.

In 2010, Stephen was unanimously appointed as the Head (Ebusuapanyin) of the Kwofie family, a role he upheld with integrity until his passing on. He valued family gatherings and carried out every assigned responsibility with dedication. He was a disciplinarian, yet a compassionate leader, who championed justice, fairness, and unity. He treated everyone with respect, regardless of age or status.

In his younger years, Stephen was a talented footballer known for his defensive skills. He played for well-regarded clubs such as Heroes F/C, Akwatown Diamond Stars and Kumasi Cornerstone F/C, contributing significantly to their success. Even after retiring from active play, he remained an ardent football supporter, frequently attending matches.

As a devoted Catholic, Stephen was a man of deep faith and prayer. He was a regular attendee of morning mass and church services, often recited the rosary, and found peace in reading the Book of Psalms and singing hymns. His spiritual life was the cornerstone of his character, influencing every aspect of his personal and professional journey. His home was a place of love, wisdom, and encouragement.

In September 2024, he fell ill and, despite medical efforts, sadly passed away on October 6, 2024.

Mr. Stephen Sakyi Kwofie was blessed with eleven (11) children: Mrs. Charity Antwi, Mrs. Angela Panford, Miss Philomena Kwofie, Mr. Anthony McBarnaman, Miss Fidelia Kwofie (deceased), Mr. Jonathan Sakyi Kwofie (deceased), Dr. Gabriel Sakyi Kwofie, Mrs. Vivian Kwarteng. Miss Miss Eleandra Kwofie, Mr. Michael Sakyi Kwofie, and his youngest child, Dr. Rachael Kwofie.

His legacy extended to twenty-four (24) grandchildren and an astonishing one hundred and seventy (170) great-grandchildren, a testament to the far-reaching impact of his life. Ebusuapanyin Stephen Sakyi Kwofie will always be remembered for his dedication to family, commitment to education, integrity, and unwavering faith.

Ebusuapanyin Stephen Sakyi Kwofie

Ebusua da wo ase

May the good Lord preserve your soul.

Rest in Perfect Peace.