The Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, joined the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to commemorate the fifth Awukudae for 2026.
Accompanied by a high-powered delegation numbering about 500, including chiefs and elders from the Gonja Kingdom, the Yagbonwura, sat in state where the gathering paid homage to him same as homage was paid to the Asantehene.
'Awukudae’, an important festival on the Asante traditional calendar, is celebrated nine times on Wednesdays in a 42-day interval in a year.
The festival is given added attention and significance when it precedes an ‘Akwasidae kese'.
The ceremony provided some paramount chiefs, royals, diasporans and other high-profile dignitaries to pay homage to the Asantehene.
Historic royal visit
The most significant part of the event was the convergence of the culture of the Gonja and Asante Kingdoms, where both of them displayed their rich cultural heritage to the gathering.
The visit strengthened the long-standing ties between the Gonja and Asante kingdoms and also led to the fostering of cordial relationships and cooperation between two traditional rulers.
The courtesy visit provided an opportunity for the two leaders to discuss issues of mutual interest, deepen cooperation between their kingdoms, and promote peace, unity, and the preservation of Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.
Dignitaries
The ceremony was graced by many dignitaries, including the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, the Savannah Regional Minister, Salisu Be-Awuribe.
Others were the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Yussif Sulemana, Member of Parliament for Salaga North, Alhaji Alhassan Mumuni, MP for Sawla Tuna Kalba, Andrew Dari Chiwitey and members of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC).
The Kenyan High Commissioner to Ghana, Colonel (rtd) Shem Ishahilidza also led a delegation to pay their respects to the Asantehene.
Gifts
Some of them presented gifts to the Asantehene to show their appreciation for the many great things he had done for Asanteman and the nation as a whole.
On his part, the Yagbonwura presented assorted items to the Asantehene.
Dance
A delegation from the Gonja Kingdom performed the Damba dance to portray the first encounter between the Yagbonwura and the Asantehene.
The novel activity was widely received by hundreds of people who graced the occasion.
Many Gonjas residing in the Ashanti Region who could not hide their joy joined the performers to perform the dance.
Desire
In a speech delivered on his behalf, the Yagbonwura, said the visit reflected his desire to promote unity and stronger collaboration with the Asante Kingdom, in keeping with our ancient tradition.
He said the visit came at a period when expectations were high for traditional authorities to continue preserving and promoting their rich traditions and customs, and said such efforts were essential not only for the safeguarding of cultural heritage, but also for enhancing tourism and contributing to the socio-economic development of our country.
He said, “this encounter is a game-changer and a giant step for us to collaborate to improve the lives of our people,” he said
He said the institution of chieftaincy has been acknowledged by successive legislation and constitutional provisions as playing an important role in the life of the country, particularly in the administration of rural communities and the management of agricultural resources.
“Numerous studies have shown that despite controversies over the relevance of this institution, chiefs remain pivots around whom local communities thrive,” he added.
Appeal
“I therefore want to appeal to the traditional rulers in Ghana to take this opportunity to prove to sceptics that the chieftaincy institution is ready to take the appropriate steps to better the lives of community members,” Yagbonwura stated.
He said, “as traditional rulers, we have a sacred responsibility to preserve our customs and traditions while guiding our people towards peace and prosperity”.
He described as commendable Asantehene’s outstanding contribution to peace-building, together with other eminent chiefs, saying “Your pivotal role in the successful resolution of the Dagbon chieftaincy dispute despite all strong skepticism, remains a shining example of statesmanship, wisdom, and leadership”.
Delight
Speaking through the Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu III, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed delight about the visit by the Yagbonwura and his entourage as it had strengthened the bond between them.
Responding to a call by the Yagbonwura for them to help in dealing with chieftaincy and land disputes, he stated that he had put in place stringent measures to resolve all such disputes within the Asante Kingdom.
While assuring the Yagbonwura of strengthening the relationship between them, he said “I will reciprocate the honour done Asanteman by your visit. I will also lead a delegation from Asante kingdom to pay you a visit as well”.
He stated that chieftaincy was not about clamouring for power to lord it over the people but rather it is a sacred duty to help deal with the numerous challenges confronting the people.
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