In a historic ceremony, Essumegyamanhene Odeneho Okyere Kusi Ntrama, a Paramount Chief from the Ashanti Kingdom in Ghana, represented Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in Denver, USA, to officiate the swearing-in and enstoolment of Nana Owusu Ababio as the new Asantefuohene (Chief) of Denver.
The event, held from August 31 to September 1 in Aurora, Denver, marked a significant milestone for the Asante and broader Ghanaian community in Denver as they welcomed their new leader. Nana Owusu Ababio will serve as the cultural ambassador and representative of the Ashanti Kingdom in Colorado.
Essumegyamanhene Odeneho Okyere Kusi Ntrama, who is also the Benkumhene of the Ashanti Kingdom, led the traditional ceremony on Saturday, August 31.
The ceremony included the administration of oaths, the presentation of ceremonial stools, and the symbolic transfer of power, signifying the official enstoolment of Nana Owusu Ababio. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II appointed Essumegyamanhene to represent him and the Sikadwa (the Golden Stool) at the swearing-in ceremony.
In his remarks, Odeneho emphasized the importance of involving the youth in cultural and traditional rituals, urging parents to instill Asante culture in their children to ensure that they remain connected to their heritage.
“It would be unnecessary for us to fly all the way to Denver for this swearing-in if you don’t bring your children along,” Odeneho stated. “They are the next in line, so we must teach them our culture, language, and traditions from infancy.”
Odeneho also highlighted the need to involve the youth in kingship and traditional leadership roles, noting their vibrancy and potential to ensure the continuity of Asante traditions both at home and abroad. Asantehene Kyeame Nana Effah Danso III, who accompanied Essumegyamanhene, took the opportunity to educate the Asante community in Denver.
He shared his own experiences and challenges when he was sworn in as Asantehene’s linguist, emphasizing the importance of learning traditional customs and language.
“I was still learning how to wear traditional cloth when I became a sub-chief of Otumfuo, so I had to learn everything,” he recounted. “I don’t want anyone here to face the same challenges, so please teach your children our traditions, especially the language and dressing.”
Nana Effah Danso stressed the importance of cultural preservation, community unity, and the role of traditional leadership in modern society, particularly for those living abroad.
He urged Nana Owusu Ababio to work tirelessly to promote the values and traditions of the Ashanti people while fostering strong relationships with the broader Denver community.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, community leaders, and members of the Ghanaian diaspora, who came together to celebrate this momentous occasion. The event featured traditional music, dance, and attire, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Ashanti people.
With the enstoolment of Nana Owusu Ababio as Asantefuohene of Denver, the community looks forward to a new era of cultural revitalization and growth under his leadership and the wise counsel of Essumegyamanhene Odeneho Okyere Kusi Ntrama.
Source: www.kumasimail.com/ Nana Asenso Mensah
