Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, on the 21st, hosted an exclusive high-level meeting with leading figures from Ghana’s private sector at the historic Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, reaffirming his enduring commitment to economic transformation driven by enterprise, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
The closed-door engagement brought together a distinguished assembly of entrepreneurs, chief executive officers, and business leaders from diverse sectors of the economy.
The meeting served as a platform for candid dialogue on the role of the private sector in national development, with a particular focus on investment, job creation, industrial growth, and sustainable wealth generation.
Among the prominent personalities present was Hon. Joana Gyan Cudjoe, Chief Executive Officer of Golden Empire Legacy Limited, whose participation underscored the growing influence of indigenous enterprises in Ghana’s economic landscape. She joined other captains of industry and senior executives who are actively shaping the country’s private sector growth and contributing to national development.
Addressing participants, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasized the critical role of the private sector as the engine of economic progress. He urged business leaders to embrace innovation, ethical leadership, and long-term investment strategies that align profitability with social responsibility.
The Asantehene reiterated that sustainable development cannot be achieved through government action alone, but through strong collaboration between traditional leadership, the private sector, and state institutions.
“The future of Ghana’s economy lies in the strength and resilience of its private sector,” Otumfuo is reported to have said. “As traditional leaders, we are committed to creating an enabling environment that encourages enterprise, attracts investment, and uplifts our people.”
Discussions at the meeting reportedly touched on key areas including access to finance for local businesses, value addition to raw materials, youth entrepreneurship, and the need to deepen public–private partnerships.
Participants also explored ways to leverage traditional institutions to promote investment opportunities within the Ashanti Region and beyond.
Hon. Joana Gyan Cudjoe, speaking on the sidelines of the meeting, highlighted the importance of visionary leadership in bridging the gap between tradition and modern enterprise. She praised the Asantehene for consistently using the Manhyia Palace as a convening ground for constructive national dialogue, particularly on economic empowerment and private sector-led development.
Observers say the engagement reflects Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s long-standing reputation as a development-oriented traditional ruler who sees economic strength as central to social stability and national progress. Over the years, the Asantehene has championed initiatives in education, health, industry, and entrepreneurship, positioning the Ashanti Kingdom as a hub of ideas and innovation.
The meeting has been widely welcomed within business and policy circles as a timely intervention, especially at a moment when Ghana continues to seek sustainable economic solutions through domestic production, entrepreneurship, and strategic investment.
As participants departed the Manhyia Palace, the consensus was clear: meaningful collaboration between traditional authority and the private sector remains a powerful catalyst for national development.
The Asantehene’s engagement with Ghana’s business elite once again reinforced Manhyia Palace’s role not only as a cultural symbol, but also as a centre for forward-looking leadership and economic dialogue.
