By Joseph Bekoe
The Royal Seat of the Asante Monarchs, Manhyia Palace, became a breathtaking spectacle on May 12th, 2024, as the world’s diverse cultures converged to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s ascension to the Golden Stool.
The grand durbar, “Akwasidaekese,” marked the culmination of a series of events commemorating this historic milestone for the 16th Asantehene. A vibrant sea of colors filled the Dwabirem, the forecourt of the Royal Citadel, as traditional chiefs, adorned in regal kente cloth, gathered beneath a canopy of multi-colored umbrellas. The rhythmic pulse of Fontomfrom and Mpintin drums, accompanied by the melodious strains of Atenteben and Ntahra flutes, set the stage for the Asantehene’s grand entrance.
Even President Akufo-Addo joined the multitude of well-wishers who had traveled from across the globe, each clad in their own unique kente designs, to pay homage to the Asantehene and Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom, the Queen of Asante. The royal couple, resplendent in gold ornaments and majestic kente cloth, made their way through the streets of Kumasi in a palanquin, surrounded by a retinue of chiefs carrying the sacred Golden Stool.
Traditional rulers from every corner of Ghana, including the Awomefia of Anlo, Togbe Sri, and chiefs from the Volta, Central, Bono, and Ahafo regions, were among those who offered their congratulations and showered the Asantehene with gifts.
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