His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has departed Ghana for the United States ahead of a special Akwasidae Kɛse celebration scheduled to take place in Maryland.
The Asantehene departed from the Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi on Sunday, August 23, 2026, beginning a two-week working visit to the United States.
Before his departure, Otumfuo was seen off at the airport by the Regional Minister together with the Mayor of Kumasi and members of the Kumasi Traditional Council.
Otumfuo to preside over Akwasidae in Maryland
During his visit, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is expected to preside over a special Akwasidae Festival Celebration at Bowie State University in Maryland on August 30, 2026.
The celebration, themed “A Legacy of Unity, a Future of Excellence,” is being organised by the Asante community in the United States together with Ghanaians across North America.
The event is expected to bring together members of the Ghanaian and Asante communities, traditional leaders, scholars, students and friends of Ghanaian culture from across the United States and beyond.
According to organisers, the celebration will feature traditional royal processions, cultural performances, drumming, dancing, Asante regalia and other activities showcasing the rich heritage of the Asante Kingdom.
Akwasidae remains one of the important traditional observances of the Asante Kingdom, providing an occasion to honour ancestors, preserve cultural traditions and strengthen the bonds of Asanteman.
Otumfuo’s participation in the US celebration is therefore expected to provide members of the Asante diaspora and other Ghanaians in North America with an opportunity to connect with the traditions and heritage of the Kingdom.
The Asantehene is travelling with a delegation that includes Paramount and Divisional Chiefs, Queen Mothers, traditional leaders and members of the Asanteman Council.
Otumfuo to take one-month leave after US trip
The US visit comes after Otumfuo announced at a Kumasi Traditional Council meeting on August 17 that he would be away for two weeks and had entrusted the stewardship of Asanteman to Daasebre Osei Bonsu III, the Asante Mamponghene, during his absence.
The Asantehene also indicated that he would take a one-month leave of absence after returning from the United States before resuming his official duties.
As the Asantehene begins his US visit, attention now turns to the historic Akwasidae Kɛse in Maryland, where Asante tradition, culture and heritage will take centre stage.
GH Educate wishes His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the delegation a safe journey.
