Otumfuo to Make Reciprocal Visit to Yagbonwura

The King of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has announced plans to visit Gonjaland in reciprocity for a visit by the Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I.

The Yagbonwura, accompanied by a delegation of over 100 people, paid a courtesy call on Otumfuo at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on July 1, 2026.

His entourage included Damongowura Kelly Seidu Boresa I, Mankpanwura Achode Borenyi I, Kulawwura Kotokyi Borewunche I, Kekpandewura Shaibu Baba Mumuni Kanyiti I, Savannah Regional Minister Salisu Be-Awuribe, Bole MP Alhaji Yusif Sulemana, and other chiefs and government officials.

Welcome Culture
In line with tradition, Otumfuo offered brɛ nsuo — comprising drinks and kola nuts — to welcome his guests.

The items were presented by seven eminent Asante traditional authorities led by the Kumawuhene, and included the Akwamuhene, Tuobodomhene, Kwamanhene, Nkwantakesehene, and Otumfuo’s Akyeamehene.

Cultural Display
The Gonja delegation performed the Damba dance to the rhythm of their hourglass-shaped talking drum and a snare-strung bass drum.

Yagbonwura’s linguist, Sulemana Adam, explained that the dance is performed to mark a new or significant event.

Presentation of Gifts
The Yagbonwura presented the Asantehene with traditional gifts, highlighted by a rare and sacred elephant tusk.

The tusk — an artefact traditionally reserved for momentous occasions — was presented alongside handwoven textiles, drinks, and kola nuts.

Representatives of the Yagbonwura described the gesture as “a token of the love we share in building our two kingdoms and our enduring friendship.”

Historical Ties
In his address read on his behalf, the Overlord of Gonja traced the three-century-old historical ties between Asante and Gonja, noting that their fraternal relationship was built on trade and scholarship.

“Although our two kingdoms are geographically separated, they have long been united by history and destiny. For centuries, trans-Saharan trade connected Salaga, Kintampo, Techiman, and Kumasi as major trade routes before the arrival of Europeans.

“These routes served not only as corridors of commerce but also as pathways of friendship, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. Gonja merchants supplied livestock, shea butter, leather, textiles, and other products, while Asante traders brought gold, kola nuts, and manufactured goods.”

He added, “Beyond commerce, our relationship was deepened through faith and scholarship. History records that distinguished Gonja scholars were warmly received in the Asante Kingdom, where they served in the royal court by offering spiritual guidance, prayers, Islamic scholarship, and wise counsel.”

He also reflected on periods when the two kingdoms faced each other on the battlefield, but noted that such divisions had long been forgotten.

According to him, that era ended when both kingdoms recognised that greatness is measured not by perpetual conflict, but by the capacity for diplomacy, mutual respect, reconciliation, and shared prosperity.

Commending Otumfuo
The Yagbonwura further commended Otumfuo’s outstanding contribution to peacebuilding, describing it as “highly commendable.”

He said Otumfuo is “widely acknowledged as a stabilising force in this nation.”

Call for Collaboration
He proposed collaboration between Asante and Gonja to develop peaceful mechanisms for resolving land disputes.

“It is my humble appeal that our two kingdoms work closely and share experiences in promoting peaceful mechanisms for resolving land disputes. What matters most is shared knowledge and experience for more effective and efficient land administration,” he said.

He added that this had become imperative to reduce tensions and maintain peace within traditional areas.

“Let us strengthen cooperation between our kingdoms so that together we can become stronger advocates for peace and stability in the country.”

Succession Matters
The Yagbonwura also raised concerns about uncertainties in customary succession in various traditional areas and called on government to support the codification and proper documentation of customary laws, family lineages, gates, skins, stools, and lines of succession.

“This will significantly reduce succession disputes, promote orderly transitions, preserve our customs, and strengthen the institution of chieftaincy,” he said.

The Yagbonwura further committed to making more visits to the Asantehene.

Reciprocal Visit
Speaking on behalf of the Asantehene, Daasebre Osei Boansu III, the Asante Mamponghene, expressed appreciation for the visit.

“You have left Asanteman deeply moved by your large entourage,” he said.

His Majesty acknowledged the significance of the visit, stating that it underscored their unity.

“Our history affirms our brotherhood… This will not end here. We will repay this visit with a reciprocal one. Chieftaincy is not about conflict, but unity for development. We welcome you and affirm that we are brothers. Let us not allow anyone to divide us.”

Meanwhile, Otumfuo reaffirmed his commitment to the pursuit of development, not only for his Kingdom but for all of Ghana.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

Click to read more: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/