Traditional Splendour: Otumfuo Celebrates 3rd Akwasidae In 2023 In Style

The Manhyia Palace was awash with colours and rhythms as His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II celebrated the third Akwasidae of the year, yesterday, April 30.

The festival began with the Asantehene making a grand entrance in a palanquin adorned in a kente cloth with gold ornaments, accompanied by a retinue of chiefs and traditional drummers. The King’s arrival was met with cheers and excitement from the large crowd that had gathered to witness the festival.

There was a vibrant atmosphere filled with traditional drumming and dancing and cultural exhibitions.

Otumfuo sat in state to receive homage from his subjects and well-wishers.

The event was graced by several notable personalities, including the Former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, who was accompanied by some party executives. 

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) delegation led by the Ashanti Regional Chairman, Nana Kwasi included the former Chief of Staff of the Presidency, Hon. Julius Debrah,  former Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Osei Kofi, former Ashanti Regional Minister and Mayor of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Dr Samuel Sarpong, former Local Government Minister, Hon. Kojo Oppong Fosu, and former Deputy Minister of Defence, Hon. Kenneth Agyei.

The event was also attended by the former Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Betty Mould-Iddrisu, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Samuel Osei Mensah, Mayor of KMA, Hon Samuel Pyne, Ashanti Regional Commander, DCOP Kofi Boakye, former Vice Chancellor of KNUST, Prof. Kwasi Obiri-Danso, National President of Ghana Bar Association, Mr Yaw Boafo (Esq.) and Prof Justice Dennis Agyei. 

The celebration of this Akwasidae comes shortly after the 24th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s reign as Asantehene on April 24, 2023.

The King and his wife, Lady Julia will also attend the coronation of King Charles III and Camilla, the Queen Consort on Saturday, May 6, 2023.

Story by Adwoa Serwaa Danso