His absence from home was not a hindrance to culture and tradition when the fifth Awukudae Festival fell on July 17, 2024. His Majesty, the Asantehene, was sure to undertake all that needed to be done.
This included a small but elegant durbar at his Henley residence in London in the United Kingdom (UK).
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II sat in state and received homage from his subjects, Asante expatriates.
Among them were Asanteman UK and Ireland, an association of Asantes living abroad.
At the event, His Majesty did not let his guard down with tradition, from outfit to tunes to seating arrangement to language to modalities in addressing, the rich Asante culture was put on display.
He addressed his subjects through his linguist and had his parasol over him from commencement. As per tradition, he didn’t host alone; he had traditional authorities strongly lending their support, including Oyokohene Nana Agyekum Ababio, Asamponghene Kwabena Owusu Korkoh and Dominasehene Baffour Yaw Boateng.
Unity
His Majesty while addressing Asanteman UK and Ireland members expressed his delight at the idea of linking and forming such an Association.
He said the commendable alliance underscores and reflects the unity hallmark of Asantes.
“You came your separate ways and have united as Asantes. Your unity affirms the concept of the Asante ethnic group and as descendants of one person.”
He further advised the leadership of the group to make humility and honesty their core traits.
“In this venture, you have embarked on, put away pride and intimidation when you are privileged to lead because all the members gave you the mandate. This will enable them to approach you with their concerns for redress.”
He furthered, “When honesty reigns in your midst, there will be unity. Most importantly, I abhor arrogance.”
Otumfuo in conclusion charged the group to “diligently keep all my advice to you this day”.
Trip
The King is in the UK among other things to deliver a lecture at the British Museum on Friday, July 19, 2024. He is also expected to host the next Akwasidae Festival there.
He left the country on Saturday, July 13, 2024.
Source: Manhyia Palace
