General News of Sunday, 26 April 2026

Source: www.ghanaweb.com

Asantehene marks 27 years of leadership, honours Mahama, Akufo-Addo, Bawumia and others

Some of the stakeholders at the event Some of the stakeholders at the event

In a vibrant celebration of leadership and unity, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, marked 27 years of his reign by honouring notable figures who have made significant contributions to Asanteman and Ghana’s development.

Among the esteemed recipients were President of the Republic of Ghana John Dramani Mahama, former President Nana Akufo-Addo, former Vice President and New Patriotic Party flagbearer Mahamudu Bawumia, and other distinguished leaders, including Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno, Sir Samuel Esson Jonah, Alex Apau Dadey, Nick Danso and Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey.

This occasion highlighted the achievements of the honourees and reinforced the Asantehene’s commitment to fostering collaboration and national progress.

The event, held under the theme “Advancing Peace and Sustainable Economic Development Through Royal Vision,” attracted distinguished figures from the traditional, political, business, diplomatic and religious sectors.

During his address, the Asantehene praised Alex Apau Dadey, Founder and Executive Chairman of KGL Group, and encouraged him to continue his contributions to Ghana’s development and the growth of Asanteman.

Under Dadey’s leadership, KGL Group has partnered Asanteman on several legacy projects, including the multi-million-dollar KGL-EVE Medical Centre located at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and the Kumasi Medical Village.

The facility is expected to provide specialised mental health, wellness and general medical services for women and children.

It will serve communities across the Ashanti Region, the Middle Belt, and the five northern regions, featuring psychiatric consultation rooms, therapy and counselling units, inpatient wards, diagnostic and pharmacy services, rehabilitation spaces and administrative offices.

In December 2021, KGL Group became the only indigenous company to acquire the first 24-karat Otumfuo Commemorative Gold Coin for one million Ghana cedis to support Asanteman development and a cultural resource centre.

The one-ounce coin, honouring Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, was unveiled as the first of its kind in Ghana to celebrate his reign and contributions to peace and stability.

The event also featured remarks from key dignitaries, including former President Nana Akufo-Addo, former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, and the Olu of Warri Kingdom in Nigeria, Ogiame Atuwatse III, together with his wife, Olori Atuwatse III.

Also present were Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Bank of Ghana Governor Johnson Asiama, Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, Ashanti Regional Minister Frank Amoakohene, Council of State Member Betty Mould-Iddrisu, Daniel McKorley, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, government appointees, and business leaders.

Chairman of the World Meets in Ghana Executive Dinner Ball, Sir Sam Jonah stated that the commemorative gold coin unveiled in honour of the Asantehene was minted to express gratitude and recognise his legacy during his lifetime.

Addressing the dinner ball on April 24, 2026, to mark the monarch’s 27th enstoolment anniversary, he said the gesture was deliberate and intended to celebrate greatness while it can still be acknowledged.

Sir Sam Jonah added that societies too often wait until leaders have passed before appreciating their impact, but the gold coin breaks that pattern.

President John Dramani Mahama, through a statement read on his behalf by Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, credited the Asantehene for strengthening and sustaining peace in Ghana over the past 27 years.

He cited the Asantehene’s interventions in the Dagbon and Bawku chieftaincy disputes.

The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, remarked that, “The Asantehene has shown over many years that traditional leadership and modern statecraft are not in contradiction. At their best, they strengthen one another.”

She added that the moral authority of tradition, exercised with wisdom and integrity, can help societies restore dialogue and move forward together.

Otumfuo recounts how Bono Regional Minister called a judge on a holiday to have people remanded

The Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III, described the Occupant of the Golden Stool as a builder and guardian of peace.

He credited the Asantehene’s 27-year reign with deliberate leadership that has secured stability in Ghana and beyond.

Alex Apau Dadey, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the Asantehene for the recognition bestowed on him and pledged his continued support for the socio-economic transformation of Asanteman, Ghana, Africa and the world.

The 27th anniversary celebration was organised by E ON 3 Group in partnership with the Diaspora Affairs Office at the Office of the President and Manhyia Palace, with KGL Group as headline sponsor, supported by various Ghanaian and international organisations.



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