Eddie SAnte: Retiring the pen, reviving music calling

Is God a master strategist, or do events happen by coincidence? This question often sparks debate. For journalist Edmund Smith-Asante, known as Eddie SAnte, the answer is clear.

Eddie believes his return to music after 18 years is divine orchestration. He retired from journalism recently, marking a new chapter in his life.

His music journey began over thirty years ago with Animated Minstrels Incorporated. Nearly two decades ago, he co-founded Ministers from Yahweh (MFY) with three women and another male member.

The group performed at Full Gospel Church International and other churches. They aimed to spread God's message through music. In 2007, they released their first album, *God's Love*, launched at KAMA Conference Centre in Accra.

Life's challenges led to the group's dissolution due to personal commitments and financial strains. Despite this, Eddie remained hopeful about God's greater plan for everyone.

Comeback

After 18 years away from music, Eddie answered the call again. His new song *Afɔre* was released on Good Friday, April 18.

In an interview, he shared his excitement about this "triumphant comeback." He feels returning to music aligns with God's plan for him.

Eddie expressed joy in releasing a new song after so long. He stated that God made the process smooth for *Afɔre*'s creation.

*Afɔre*, featuring Vivi Adjei, conveys Jesus' sacrifice and encourages Christians to offer themselves to God. Both artists express themes of sacrifice uniquely—Eddie as a vessel and Vivi through her voice.

Eddie explained that every song has a spirit. *Afɔre* aims to capture the essence of Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross.

He recalled how the song came to him in a dream last year. He woke up singing it and recorded it immediately on his phone. Later, he collaborated with his nephew’s studio team to bring it to life.

The song highlights themes of sacrifice, worship, and redemption—showing Jesus' journey from Heaven to Earth and his resurrection. Eddie feels immense relief in reviving his music calling after nearly two decades away.

Currently part of the Contemporary Choir at ICGC Holy Ghost Temple in Frafraha, Adentan, Eddie looks forward to focusing more on music soon. He anticipates having more time for his passion in the coming months.

Background

Mr. Smith-Asante attended Mfantsipim School in Cape Coast before studying at Ghana Institute of Journalism.

He completed National Service at Agona Odoben Secondary School before joining World Vision International as an Assistant Information Officer.

Eddie worked as a freelance journalist until becoming a proofreader at Independent Newspaper in 2000. Over time, he held various editorial roles there before leaving in 2006 for Ghanaian Observer as Founding Editor that same year.

Afterward, he joined Ghana Business Online as Assistant Online Editor before settling at Graphic Communications Group Ltd., where he currently serves as Regional Page/Supplements Editor of Daily Graphic while preparing for retirement later this year.

Awards

Eddie SAnte has received numerous awards for his journalism work. These include multiple Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards for Best Reporter on Water from 2009-2012.

He also won Biodiversity and Environmental Writer awards along with GJA Best Domestic Tourism Reporter in 2019. Recently, he received double awards: Columnist of the Year and Domestic Tourism Reporter of the Year at the 2024 GJA Awards.

With an impressive journalism record and experience as a photojournalist, Eddie looks forward to retiring gracefully by year's end. When asked if he'd miss journalism, he replied: “Journalism is my profession; photography is my passion; music is my calling.”