It was an Akwasidae festival in the United Kingdom (UK), but most importantly, it was an opportunity and platform for Asantes and Ghanaians domiciled across the European continent to fulfill their cultural obligation to their King, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Thousands thronged to the Middle Temple Garden in London on Sunday, August 4, 2024. It was a rare and golden opportunity and none thought of missing it.
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For some, it was their first time meeting the King, while for others, it was a chance to renew their cultural bonds and observe culture and tradition.
Asantes came, most of them in groups. Over 20 groups formed by expatriates made their appearance before the King to pay their respects and reverence and to partake in the auspicious festival.
Among them were Nananom Progressive UK, Asanteman Europe, Asante Students Union UK, Asanteman Association of UK, Asanteman Europe, Asanteman Association in Belgium and Asanteman Northampton.
But it was not just an affair of the Black race as some foreigners and natives of the land could be witnessed among the attendees, probably to satisfy their curiosity about the presence of the great King who had captivated the city of London with his rich cultural display.
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Also present were former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Ghana High Commissioner to the UK Papa Owusu Ankomah, Member of the UK House of Lords Lord Paul Boateng, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Samuel Abu Jinapor, Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Stephen Asamoah Boateng, Member of Parliament for Manhyia South Constituency Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, among others.
The event was nothing short of traditional glamour.
After paying his homage, the Ghana High Commissioner to the UK, Papa Owusu Ankomah expressed his gratitude to His Majesty for the honour he had brought Ghanaians with his representation in the UK.
“This past weeks, we have been honoured as a people with your presence and the addresses you have delivered at various fora. Looking round, this is what Ghana is. Look at the diverse tapestry of Kente cloths. Probably we have over 500 different designs. This symbolises the unity between your Kingdom and Ghana with the diversity.
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“You have inspired us as a people because your accomplishment over the past 25 years is unequaled. We’ve come here to pay homage to you and wish you many more years of reign and it is our prayer that you will continue to guide us even though it’s a political leadership because politicians look to the next election but you look to the future generation. We thank you for the honour that you have brought to those of us in Ghana and the Ghanaians in the United Kingdom.”
Source: Manhyia Palace
