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After obtaining artifacts at the Manhyia Palace that were stolen from Kumasi approximately 150 years ago, Ashanti overlord Otumfuo Osei Tutu II claims to have restored the spirit and soul of the Ashanti people.
In 1874, seven golden artifacts were taken from Kumasi and ended up at the Fowler Museum in California.
Following multiple unsuccessful attempts by his predecessors, including Otumfuo Agyemang Prempeh II, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II was able to secure the artifacts.
A durbar of chiefs was held at the Manhyia Palace to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Sagrenti War, which broke out in 1874, as well as to display the artifacts.
It honors the 25 years since Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, ascended to the Golden Stool.
The items’ return was made possible by Professor Kwasi Ampene of Tufts University’s music department in Massachusetts, USA.
In an interview with media, he states that the Asantehene is pleased with the return of the pure gold artifacts.
“When we came here, Otumfuo, His Royal Majesty and I will quote him. He said that he has been able to return our (Asante) soul to its original place. “
According to Professor Ampene, a member of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences who has written and researched extensively on Asante culture and tradition, the items have spiritual relevance 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.”
They include silver Asipim chairs, Sika Amena, and pure gold necklaces, armbands, and anklets.
They were being sent back from the University of California, Fowler Museum in the United States.
A second shipment of artifacts from the British Museum is scheduled to arrive in April of this year and will be displayed outdoors on May 12, 2024, during the Akwasidae Festival festivities.
The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II was commended by Professor Ampene for starting the return and for being given authority for the project.
“We have to recognise 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”.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
