Is life a series of random events, or is there a divine script guiding each step? For veteran journalist Edmund Smith-Asante—who now goes by the stage name Eddie SAnte—the answer is unequivocal. He believes life’s twists and turns are divinely orchestrated, and his recent journey proves it.

After decades in journalism, Eddie is closing one chapter and opening another, returning to music after an 18-year break. As he approaches retirement from his role as Regional Page and Supplements Editor at Daily Graphic, Eddie is stepping back into the recording booth, fueled by a renewed sense of purpose.

His musical roots run deep. Over 30 years ago, Eddie began performing with a group called Animated Minstrels Incorporated. But in the early 2000s, he co-founded Ministers from Yahweh (MFY) alongside three women and one other male member. As members of the Full Gospel Church International, the group used music to minister both at their home church and beyond.

Their passion led to the release of their debut album, God’s Love, in 2007, launched at KAMA Conference Centre in Accra. However, the realities of adult life—financial strains, personal responsibilities, and creative challenges—eventually brought the group’s activities to a halt.

Still, Eddie never lost faith.

Now, almost two decades later, he has returned with a powerful new single titled Afɔre, released on Good Friday, April 18. The song is not just a comeback but a spiritual renewal, inspired by a dream and brought to life with the help of his daughter, his nephew, and featured singer Vivi Adjei.

Speaking about his return, Eddie shared, “This isn’t just a coincidence. Retiring from journalism and reviving my music ministry at the same time feels like God’s precise timing. I believe it’s all part of a divine plan.”

Afɔre, which means “sacrifice” in Twi, is more than a song—it’s a heartfelt offering. The track reflects on Christ’s selfless sacrifice on the cross and calls on believers to offer themselves in service to God. Eddie sings as a willing vessel, while Vivi lends her voice as her own form of worship.

He recounted how the song came to him: “I dreamt about it and woke up singing. I went straight to the washroom to record the melody on my phone. It felt urgent, like God wanted me to bring it to life immediately.”

Eddie believes that music carries spiritual weight. Afɔre, he explains, captures the essence of Christ’s journey—from divinity to humanity, death, and resurrection—and encourages listeners to respond with personal sacrifice and worship.

Now a member of the Contemporary Choir at ICGC Holy Ghost Temple in Frafraha, Adentan, Eddie is excited to dedicate more time to music in the coming months. With journalism taking a back seat, he hopes to explore this rekindled passion more deeply.

Eddie’s journey in journalism is equally inspiring. A proud alumnus of Mfantsipim School and the Ghana Institute of Journalism, he began his career with World Vision International before freelancing and later joining The Independent newspaper in 2000. Rising through the editorial ranks, he eventually became the paper’s Editor.

In 2006, he helped launch the Ghanaian Observer as its Founding Editor. After a stint at Ghana Business Online, he joined the Graphic Communications Group Ltd., where he has served with distinction.

His outstanding work has earned him numerous accolades, including three GJA Awards for Best Reporter on Water (2009, 2011, and 2012), honors for environmental and biodiversity reporting, and the Best Domestic Tourism Reporter award in 2019. At the 2024 GJA Awards, he was celebrated as both Columnist of the Year and Best Domestic Tourism Reporter.

As retirement approaches, Eddie SAnte is looking forward to new beginnings. When asked how he feels about putting down the pen, he responded with a smile: “Journalism is my profession, photography is my passion, and music is my calling.”