In a momentous declaration, the revered Ashanti leader, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, announced the restoration of Ashanti’s essence with the return of precious artefacts pilfered from Kumasi over a century ago. These seven revered golden relics, stolen in 1874, had been housed in the Fowler Museum in California, USA, until their rightful homecoming to the Manhyia Palace.
After numerous unsuccessful attempts by his predecessors, including Otumfuo Agyemang Prempeh II, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II successfully reclaimed the artefacts. A grand durbar of chiefs was convened at the Manhyia Palace to unveil these cherished relics and commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Sagrenti War of 1874. This momentous occasion coincided with the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s reign on the Golden Stool.
Professor Kwasi Ampene from Tufts University in Massachusetts played a pivotal role in facilitating the artefacts’ return. In an exclusive interview with JoyNews, he shared Otumfuo’s joy at the artefacts’ homecoming, emphasizing their significance as symbols of Asante’s spiritual essence.
“When we arrived, Otumfuo, His Royal Majesty, expressed his sentiments, stating that the return of these artefacts has restored Asante’s soul to its rightful place.”
Professor Ampene, a respected member of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences, noted the spiritual importance of these items within Asante culture and tradition, reflecting their deep-rooted significance to the kingdom.
Upon our arrival, Otumfuo, His Royal Majesty, expressed, “I have been able to return our (Asante) soul to its original place.”
Professor Ampene, a distinguished member of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences renowned for his extensive research and writing on Asante culture and tradition, emphasized the spiritual significance of the artefacts to the Asante Kingdom.
“The items are still items that have spiritual relevance to us. They are still active; they would be activated and they would be used.”
The artefacts consist of Asipim chairs crafted from silver, Sika Amena, as well as necklaces, armbands, and anklets, all fashioned from pure gold. These treasures were repatriated from the Fowler Museum at the University of California, United States.
Additionally, another collection of artefacts is anticipated to arrive from the British Museum in April of this year and will be officially unveiled on May 12, 2024, during the Akwasidae Festival celebrations.
Professor Ampene commended Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for spearheading the repatriation effort and acknowledged his unwavering commitment to the project.
“We have to recognize Opemsuo Osei Tutu Ababio for his efforts in this because he was the one who empowered me to facilitate. I didn’t just do it on my own but because he has initiated the whole process of trying to get it back”.
Ivor Agyemang Duah, the Technical Advisor to the project, informed Joy News that once the Manhyia Palace Museum undergoes rehabilitation, the general public will have access to these objects.
