Asanteman Mourns: “Take Heart”- Akwamumanhene Consoles Asantehene On Loss Of Asantehemaa
The Paramount Chief of Akwamu Traditional Council, Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III, has comforted the Occupant of the Golden Stool, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, on the passing of Nana Konadu Yiadom III, Asantehemaa.
“Take heart,” Odeneho told Otumfuo during a visit to Kumasi alongside a high-powered delegation from Akwamufie in the Eastern Region on September 8, 2025.
Akwamuman used the occasion to express its unflinching support for the Asante Kingdom, with which it shares pleasant historical ties that predate the establishment of the Asante Kingdom.
“I assure you of my support in these difficult moments. I will not turn my back on you. Whatever has to do with Asante affects us, too. We are inseparable.”
Touching on the relations between the two kingdoms, Odeneho stated, “What we see today {my visit} didn’t begin today. I am only preserving what my predecessors started.”
In accordance with tradition, he presented bottles of Schnapps, a calabash of cola nuts and a bottle of whisky to the Asantehene.
Reaffirming the relations, the Asantehene tasted some of the cola nuts before the guests.
In his remarks, the Asantehene expressed his appreciation for the show of love and kindness exhibited by Akwamuman, a place he described as his training grounds for kingship.
History
Recalling history, Otumfuo shared how the first King of the Asante Kingdom, Opemsuo Osei Tutu, received mentorship in Akwamu at the feet of Nana Ansa Sasraku, the then chief.
His Majesty credited Nana Sasraku for his success.
“His training put me where I sit today. From Denkyira, I settled in Akwamu with Nana Ansa Sasraku. He hosted me. At the time, Obiri Komfo {Komfo Anokye} had also fallen out with the people of Awukugua, who had petitioned Ansa Sasraku to summon him. The chief took Obiri Komfo in to stay with him. It was there that I met Obiri Komfo.
“He {Obiri Komfo} prophesied that I would be a great King here. It was from that moment that Ansa Sasraku began to mentor me. After some time, messengers were sent to bring me to Kumasi. Led by Adumhene, you {Akwamuhene} sent me away along with 1000 people, including Obiri Komfo, to ensure my safe arrival.”
Forever Grateful
Otumfuo did not conceal his gratitude for the benevolence shown him many years ago.
“As great as I am, I owe it to you. I will never be ungrateful. The blessings of Nana Ansah alongside Komfo Anokye have made me who I am…I have not forgotten you after prospering.”
Inseparable
The King further acknowledged the inseparability of the two kingdoms.
“You said right when you said we are inseparable. You can’t forsake me, and I can’t forsake you. You helped me make my journey back home. How can I forsake you?”
Visit
His Majesty also announced plans to visit Odeneho Kwafo after the conclusion of the burial rites and funeral of Nana Konadu.
“I should have visited you following your enstoolment, but it was this occasion of mourning that brought us together. I will come after everything ends. When together, we have put the Queen to rest.”
Story by Hajara Fuseini
Click to read more: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/
