The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and the Asantehemaa, Nana Yaa Akyaa II, on Sunday presided over separate grand durbars at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi to mark the fifth Akwasidae Festival of the year.
The colourful traditional event, held on July 19, 2026, attracted a large gathering of chiefs, queen mothers, royals, government officials, diplomats and other distinguished guests who paid homage to the revered monarchs in accordance with Asante custom.
The Akwasidae Festival, one of the most significant events on the Asante traditional calendar, serves as an occasion for the Asante Kingdom to celebrate its rich cultural heritage, reaffirm unity and strengthen the bond between the Golden Stool and the people.
At the Manhyia Palace, Nananom from across the Ashanti Kingdom took turns to pay homage to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, while the Asantehemaa also received traditional courtesies from queen mothers, royals and invited guests during her separate durbar.
The festival was attended by members of the Ashanti Regional Security Council led by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, who joined other dignitaries to honour the Asantehene and Asantehemaa.
Other notable personalities present included the Deputy Mayor of Bobigny in France, Nana Shodu; former Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah; and the Chief Executive Officer of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Dr Paa Kwesi Baidoo.
The ceremony was characterised by traditional drumming, dancing, the blowing of elephant tusks and the display of rich Asante regalia, reflecting the splendour and enduring cultural values of the Asante Kingdom.
The Akwasidae Festival continues to serve as an important platform for preserving Ghana’s cultural identity while fostering unity among the Asante people and strengthening the relationship between traditional leadership and the wider community.
