Why Otumfuo dropped his golden jewellery for silver at his 25th anniversary event

Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II

One of the most profound and popular appellations and titles used in paying homage to the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is that he is the custodian of the Golden Stool.

Owing to his position as the premier and most revered personality from Asanteman, Otumfuo embodies everything Asanteman which is inclusive of the rich gold resources the area boasts of.

Therefore, it has become a norm to see the Asantehene wearing golden ornaments at public events.

The practice does not just reflect the wealth of gold Asanteman boasts of but is also a continuation of the tradition that depicts Asanteman as the richest kingdom in not just Ghana but Africa.

This tradition existed long before Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and he has since his installation, some 25 years ago, done exceedingly well to entrench it.

However, on the occasion of his 25th anniversary as the ruler of Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo opted for silver jewellery for his celebrations.

Photos and videos from the event held on Friday, April 26, 2024, captured the Asantehene draped in a white Kente cloth with beautiful silver pieces of jewellery on his neck and hand.

While there has been no official reason for the decision by the revered King to settle for silver ornaments instead of gold, the assumption is that the preference for silver over gold by Otumfuo this time around was to underscore the significance of the occasion.

25 years is deemed to be a Silver Jubilee and therefore Otumfuo, who is a revered man of class with an impeccable sense of timing and fashion, opted for the silver jewellery to mark the important milestone in his rulership.

Watch pictures of the ceremony below:

It was a delight to witness the rich cultural heritage of Asanteman on display during the event.

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— Alan Kyerematen (@AlanKyerematen) April 26, 2024