Kumasi Gives Otumfuo Colourful Welcome
His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has received a grand and colourful welcome from residents of Kumasi following his return from the United States of America.
The reception, held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, celebrated the safe return of the Asantehene after a series of engagements in the US aimed at projecting Asanteman and Ghanaian culture on the international stage.
The welcome was jointly organised by the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Manhyia Palace, Asanteman Council and residents of Kumasi.
Otumfuo arrived at the Prempeh I International Airport, where he was received with a ceremonial parade by the security services.
Traditional leaders, government officials and hundreds of residents also gathered at the airport to welcome the Asantehene.
Following the airport ceremony, Otumfuo embarked on a grand procession through some principal streets of Kumasi.
The procession passed through Dichemso, Krofrom, Suame Roundabout, Abrepo Junction, Bantama, Gee Roundabout, Kejetia, the Central Police Station, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and Asewase before arriving at the Manhyia Palace.
Residents lined the streets in their numbers to catch a glimpse of the Asantehene, with cheers, drumming and dancing accompanying the procession.
Some residents expressed their excitement and pride at welcoming Otumfuo back home, describing his international engagements as a significant platform for promoting Asante and Ghanaian culture.
At the Manhyia Palace, traditional rites, music and cultural displays were performed to officially welcome the Asantehene and give thanks for his safe return.
The colourful reception transformed parts of Kumasi into a scene of celebration as residents joined traditional authorities and officials to welcome the Asantehene home.
Otumfuo’s US visit included the celebration of Akwasidae and other engagements focused on promoting Asante heritage and Ghanaian culture globally.
