The Manhyia Palace today is easy on the eye as it marks two significant events on the Asanteman Calendar.
The third Awukudae festival of the year 2024 was consciously entwined with the “Ahoho Da”, a special event slated as part of the Silver Jubilee celebration of the Monarch of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to have some time with ethnic groups domiciled on his land.
The cultural synthesis in the making currently at the Dwabrem Grounds of the Manhyia Palace is a spectacle to behold and an unforgettable experience for both Asanteman and the 43 ethnic groups celebrating with the King.
The various tribes made colourful entries into the Palace as each group identified themselves decked out in their respective signature costumes led by their chiefs. The Fantes donned Kaba and slit matching their beaded necklaces.
The Yorubas and Igbos stepped out in the agbada and Isiagu while their women were in their famous iro (wrapper), buba (blouse) and ipele outfit.
The Moshies identified themselves with a basket full of cola nut and guinea fowl as they danced their way with their songs into the Palace. One of the most eye-catching entrants was displayed by the Ewe who made their way in with the famous Borborbor dance.
Others came in on walking sticks showcasing the culture of the people of Winneba while others came in mounting horses.
It is believed that this day will forever remain etched in memories and on hearts as the event reflects the utmost regard and affection the King has for all men on his land.
Some of the tribes to participate in the event include Banda community, the Bargu community, the Baribari community, the Basari community, the Bimorba community, the Bisa community, the Bulsa community, the Buzu community, the Chaala community, the Chamba community, the Chilinga community, the Chokosi community, the Dagomba community, the Dandawa community, the Ewe community, the Fante community, the Frafra community, the Fulani community, the Gurushie-sissala community, the Gonja community and the Hausa community.
Other participants are the Igbo community, the Kado community, the Kantoshi community, the Konkonba community, the Kotokoli community, the Kusasi community, the Katsina Nankani community, the Kodogo community, the Kwahu Community, the Mamprusi community, the Moshie community, the Nzema community, the Nufawa community, the Songhai community, the Summa community, the Tuba community, the Wala community, the Wangara community, the Yadega community, the Yanga community, the Yoruba community and the Zabarma community.
Asanteman since time immemorial has opened its doors to all non-Asantes and proven to be more than home to such groups with most being bestowed lands by Asantehene and having their places of settlement named after their ethnicity.
Such places in Asanteman include Dagombaline, Fante New Town, Anloga, and Zongo.
These ethnic groups are led by chiefs recognized by the Asantehene.
His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on numerous occasions has expressed his highest regard for these groups. According to him, Asanteman was built with such people and thus his utmost regard for them.
Source: Manhyia Palace
