The year 2025 has been described by observers as one of the most significant in recent history for Manhyia Palace, the seat of the Asante Kingdom, as it witnessed a blend of royal tradition, high-level diplomacy, celebration and profound moments of loss.
The year opened in January with President John Dramani Mahama joining the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the first Akwasidae of the year.
The occasion marked President Mahama’s first official visit to the Ashanti Region following his re-election and inauguration, underscoring the enduring relationship between the presidency and Asanteman.
February brought mourning to the palace with the death of the Asokore Mamponghene and Nifahene of the Kumasi Traditional Council, Nana Boakye Ansah Debrah, who passed away in South Africa after a short illness.
His death followed closely on the passing of the Asokore Mampong Queen Mother, Nana Saamaa Diawuo II, deepening the sense of loss within the Kingdom.
In March, Manhyia Palace Museum strengthened its international cultural footprint by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Institute for Culture, Heritage, and the Arts of Seychelles, aimed at promoting cultural exchange and collaboration.
April marked another major loss with the passing of the Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, who also served as Asanteman Nifahene and Nwisiahene. Widely regarded as the Asantehene’s most senior lieutenant, he died at the age of 86 after nearly 29 years of service, with funeral rites held in June.
Diplomacy and international engagement dominated May, as Manhyia Palace hosted a delegation from the UK Advanced Command and Staff College, comprising officers from 13 countries. Discussions focused on governance, security and the role of traditional authority.
The palace also hosted the Millennium Excellence Awards as part of the Silver Jubilee celebrations of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. In the same month, UK Member of Parliament and Trade Envoy Bell Ribeiro-Addy paid a courtesy call on the Asantehene to explore trade and investment opportunities.
June featured a landmark visit by King Mswati III of Eswatini, reciprocating an earlier visit by the Asantehene. The visit was marked by ceremonial events, cultural exchanges and engagements that reinforced ties between the two traditional kingdoms.
In July, Black Stars and Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku paid a courtesy visit to the Asantehene, presenting a personalised club jersey and receiving royal blessings in recognition of his Asante heritage.
August plunged Asanteman into deep mourning with the death of the Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, at the age of 98. Her passing ushered in a solemn period that culminated in September with the Dote Yie burial rites, a four-day ceremony at Manhyia Palace honouring her legacy and ensuring cultural and political continuity.
November stood out for extensive international engagement. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier paid a courtesy visit to the Asantehene during a state visit to Ghana.
In the same month, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II embarked on historic state visits to Barbados and Suriname, strengthening ties with the African diaspora and participating in major cultural and academic events.
The palace also welcomed Brazilian content creator Leonardo Muylaert, known as “Tall Clark,” during the 8th Akwasidae Festival.
The year concluded in December with significant national and diplomatic milestones. The Asantehene presented the final report on the Bawku mediation process to President Mahama at Jubilee House, following months of dialogue.
Days later, the Emir of Kano, Dr. Mallam Sanusi Lamido II, paid a historic visit to Manhyia Palace, highlighting centuries-old ties between the two traditional states. The final Akwasidae, Adae Kɛse, on December 21 once again brought together the Asantehene and President Mahama.
As 2025 draws to a close, Manhyia Palace reflects on a year defined by leadership, heritage and history, reinforcing its enduring role in Ghana’s cultural, political and diplomatic life.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
