Akuoko Sarpong calls for the establishment of association of African traditional rulers

Kumasi, (Ashanti Region) 20 July '99,

Nana Kwame Akuoko-Sarpong, Agogohene and Presidential Staffer for Chieftaincy Affairs, on Tuesday advocated the establishment of an organisation of African traditional rulers and authorities to assist in the governance of the continent.

He said such a body would help in the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts.

Nana Akuoko-Sarpong was addressing a meeting of the National House of Chiefs (NHC) during which Odeefuo Boa Amponsem, Denkyirahene and President of the Central Region House of Chiefs, was elected unopposed as its President in Kumasi.

He succeeds Osagyefo Kuntunkununku III, Okyehene, who went to the village on March 17 after a short illness.

The Agogohene, who is also the Chairman of the National Commission on Culture (NCC), said the institution would continue to enjoy the honour, dignity and respect which has been accorded it from time immemorial.

He said African countries should learn from the success stories of Korea, Taiwan and Japan, whose strong reliance on culture and its application in modern governance has made them what they are today.

Nana Akuoko-Sarpong said the establishment of the organisation could begin with the setting up of sub-regional groupings of traditional rulers.

He stressed the need to strengthen the capacity of the traditional councils, regional and national houses of chiefs by providing them with the requisite resources.