Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II says his Kingdom in doubt is proud to be part of the Republic of Ghana after over six decades of taking the bold step to join in the integration of the diverse societies.
According to the Monarch, the Asante Kingdom and its leaders since then have made their contribution towards the economic growth of the country, making themselves invaluable to the country while at the same time being conscious of not being osmosed to give up their uniqueness.
Speaking at an event in the United Kingdom on August 2, 2024, he said, “We have just celebrated the Silver Jubilee of our ascension to the Golden Stool. By the Grace of God, the period of our reign has not been without value. We have seen a remarkable resurgence of our rich cultural heritage within the enchanting diversity of a wider nation-state called Ghana.
“We have successfully met the challenge of aligning the traditional values we represent with the values of the new democratic state. But even as we celebrate the gifts of the past 25 years, we cannot but concede that the real task has only now begun.”
Otumfuo noted that the Kingdom seeks to permeate through the entire fabric of the new nation- a step the Kingdom and its leaders have since taken upon themselves by making contributions toward the economic growth of the country.
“We are forever mindful of our heritage- the heritage of a proud African kingdom determined to preserve its independence and expand the scope for the advancement of its people. Even so, we are happy today to be part of a larger Republic of Ghana but we not only carry with us the inherent drive to strive ceaselessly for the advancement of our people but we want this drive to permeate through the entire fabric of our new nation.”
Outlining some of his contributions toward the country’s development in the past 25 years, Otumfuo said he has, without measure thrown his weight behind every chosen government in carrying out their mandate, proven to be a backbone to the business community.
“We have placed ourselves freely at the call of business interests of all types in helping resolve disputes and facilitate their operations. We have engaged with the institutions of the World Bank as they sought agreements with our governments on complex negotiations.”
His Majesty spoke at the inaugural Black Heritage Network Symposium hosted by Citibank in the United Kingdom under the theme ‘The Asante Kingdom: Historical Legacy and Its Impact on Modern Economic Development’.
Present were the former President of Ghana, His Excellency John Agyekum Kufuor, Citi Group Chief Client Officer, David Livingstone, and other notable dignitaries, scholars, and business leaders.
The event was used to honour the Asantehene’s contributions and vision for sustainable development, underscoring the importance of the Asante Kingdom’s enduring legacy in the socio-economic fabric of Ghana.
Source: Manhyia Palace
