Asantehene Honoured with a Rare Gift By Lebanese Business Mogul

A Lebanese businessman, Zein Kassab, has presented a rare gift to His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, in recognition of his remarkable role in maintaining peace and unity in Ghana, particularly his efforts in resolving the Dagbon conflict.

Mr. Kassab who runs KASSAB Trading and Restaurant said he was deeply moved by Asantehene’s commitment to peace and reconciliation, which inspired him to offer the special gift as a token of gratitude.

“I am here to show love and to appreciate Asantehene for the role he played to reconcile parties in the Dagbon case.”

He explained that the gift is traditionally reserved for monarchs and was once presented to the late Queen Elizabeth.

“Mostly it is given to Kings and Queens and it was given to the late Queen Elizabeth.”

The Asantehene warmly received the gesture and engaged Mr. Kassab in a brief conversation during the 8th Awukudae Festival of the year, held at the Manhyia Palace on Wednesday, October 22, 2025.

He added that it would be an honour to be accepted as one of the King’s sons, revealing that he had already adopted the Ghanaian name “Yaw.”

Several groups and institutions paid homage to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene during the event.

Among them were St. Louis College of Education, Komfo Anokye Nursing and Midwifery Training College, the Bright and Pure Holiness Ministry, and business entities including the Asanteman Cold Store Association, Mantrack Company and Westec Security Ghana Ltd.

The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic Global Health Programme (MCGHP) and a team of cardiologists from PACE LIFE-United Kingdom (UK), also participated, alongside the Asanteman Europe Association.

Story by Adwoa S. Danso