100 Years After Exile: Nana Agyeman Prempeh I Commemorated In Seychelles

To mark 100 years since the return of Asante King Nana Agyeman Prempeh I from exile, a significant two-week exhibition titled “The King in Exile: A Photographic Journey through Asante History and Heritage” was inaugurated on November 11, 2024 at the Seychelles National Library.

The exhibition showcases a carefully curated collection of archival photographs and narratives, guiding visitors through Nana Agyeman Prempeh I’s remarkable journey and the enduring heritage of his leadership.

Presented in collaboration with the Manhyia Palace Museum, this initiative serves as a cultural bridge between Ghana and Seychelles, illuminating a shared history of resilience, unity, and pride.

This historical event is a joint effort between the Asante Kingdom, the Republic of Seychelles, the Manhyia Palace, the Seychelles Institute for Culture, Heritage, and the Arts, and the Consulate of Seychelles in Ghana.

It honors the memory of Nana Agyeman Prempeh I and the valiant Yaa Asantewaa, whose courage continues to impact both Ghana and Seychelles.

Uniting Two Cultures: A Legacy Remembered
At the launch, Seychelles President H.E. Wavel Ramkalawan highlighted the significance of Nana Agyeman Prempeh I’s legacy for both nations.

To honor the King’s profound influence, the Anglican Church he attended while in exile will be renamed after him and transformed into a museum dedicated to his life and impact.

Ramkalawan noted that “Nana Agyeman Prempeh I’s memory lives on because he still has descendants in Seychelles,” emphasizing that the King’s legacy is well known and cherished, where it is taught in schools and valued as part of local history.

Speaking to Lois Shola Adeyemi at the sidelines of the exhibition, President Ramkalawan encouraged Ghanaians to visit Seychelles to deepen their understanding of Nana Agyeman Prempeh I and to appreciate the historical bond he created. He expressed hope that cultural departments in Ghana and Seychelles would continue collaborating to strengthen these ties.

Ghana’s High Commissioner to Seychelles, Her Excellency Mrs. Francisca Ashietey-Odunton, shared her thoughts on Nana Agyeman Prempeh I’s steadfast dedication to his homeland, reminding Ghanaians of the importance of patriotism and cultural heritage.

She encouraged Ghanaian youth to embrace their roots and to honor the history that shapes their identity.

Her Excellency added that this event would be part of a broader celebration, including an anticipated visit by the President of Seychelles to Ghana for the centennial commemoration.

She noted that, while in exile, Nana Agyeman Prempeh I and his entourage “lived in Seychelles as Ghanaians” and never forgot their roots.

“They lived in Seychelles as Ghanaians, and several times he requested to be sent back home. Finally, with the intervention of the Anglican Church, after he had been baptized, his dream of returning home was realized 100 years ago,” shared the ambassador.

“The house, remnants, the place where they poured libation, and many others are still here for everyone to see.”

A King in Exile: Preserving History for Future Generations
The “King in Exile” exhibition has drawn a remarkable turnout, offering visitors an immersive journey into the resilience and enduring pride of Asante culture.

Each photograph and story presents a powerful tribute to a heritage that has survived centuries of change.

Open to the public, the exhibition welcomes Ghanaians and history enthusiasts alike to explore the life of Nana Agyeman Prempeh I—a leader who not only shaped Asante history but continues to inspire generations.

Historical Background
Nana Agyeman Prempeh I, one of the Asante Kingdom’s most revered rulers, symbolized unity and defiance against colonialism.

At the end of the 19th century, he opposed British demands that threatened his kingdom’s autonomy, resulting in his forced exile. Initially exiled to Sierra Leone, he was then transferred by British authorities to Seychelles, where he remained for 24 years.

During his exile, Nana Agyeman Prempeh I maintained a strong connection with his people, advocating continuously for his return.

In a powerful gesture, he brought back the remains of those who perished in exile, including the warrior queen Yaa Asantewaa, to ensure their rest in their homeland.

The centennial commemoration of Nana Agyeman Prempeh I’s exile and legacy reflects the cultural ties he fostered.

This exhibition stands as a tribute not only to his resilience but also to the friendship between Ghana and Seychelles, underscoring the enduring value of heritage, pride, and unity across generations and borders.

Source: Seychelles Nation