In a heartfelt speech delivered during his official visit to Kumasi, Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan underscored the enduring historical ties between the Republic of Seychelles and the Ashanti Kingdom.
The visit, which coincided with key commemorations in Ghana’s history, served to deepen cultural and diplomatic relations between the two nations.
President Ramkalawan began by expressing gratitude to His Majesty the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the people of Ghana for the warm welcome extended to him, the First Lady, and his delegation.
He noted the significance of 2024 as a pivotal year for the Ashanti people, marking the centenary of King Prempeh I’s return from exile in Seychelles and the 150th anniversary of the Third Anglo-Ashanti War of 1874.
Celebrating Shared Histories
During his address, the President reflected on the historical connection between Seychelles and the Ashanti Kingdom, rooted in the exile of King Prempeh I. The late king was exiled to Seychelles by British colonial authorities from 1900 to 1924.
President Ramkalawan described King Prempeh as “a man of peace and dignity” who earned the respect and affection of the Seychellois people during his stay.
“The bonds between our two nations were forged during King Prempeh I’s exile. Through his presence, our people established a relationship that endures to this day,” he said. “Though we come from different oceans—Ghana by the Atlantic and Seychelles by the Indian Ocean—we are one.”
Strengthening Cultural Collaboration
The President announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cultural cooperation between Seychelles and Ghana.
He expressed optimism that the agreement would pave the way for increased collaboration between the Seychelles National Institute for Culture, Heritage, and the Arts and representatives of the Ashanti Kingdom.
“This MoU marks a new chapter in our cultural partnership,” said President Ramkalawan. “Through it, we aim to explore opportunities that will deepen our mutual understanding and appreciation of each other’s heritage.”
President Ramkalawan also proposed the twinning of districts in Kumasi with regions in Seychelles to further strengthen cultural ties. He emphasized that such partnerships could facilitate exchanges between citizens of both nations and foster greater unity.
A Personal Reflection
President Ramkalawan shared his admiration for the descendants of King Prempeh I, whom he met during his visit. He remarked on the remarkable resemblance between the Ashanti people and the Seychellois, highlighting the shared history and familial bonds that link the two nations.
“This visit has allowed me to reflect not only on the past but also on the future of our relationship,” he said. “It is inspiring to see how deeply interconnected our histories are, with Seychellois of Ashanti descent living here in Ghana and Ghanaians with roots in Seychelles.”
A Vision for the Future
As part of his visit, President Ramkalawan toured historic sites in Kumasi linked to King Prempeh I’s exile and legacy. He expressed his commitment to fostering continued collaboration between Seychelles and Ghana in preserving and celebrating their shared heritage.
In his closing remarks, President Ramkalawan congratulated the Asantehene on his Silver Jubilee, noting the remarkable leadership and cultural stewardship of the Ashanti Kingdom. He reaffirmed Seychelles’ commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties and cultural partnerships with Ghana.
“Together, we honor the sacrifices of the past and look forward to a future of unity, collaboration, and shared prosperity,” he concluded.
The President’s visit is seen as a significant step in furthering the historical and cultural bonds between Seychelles and Ghana, setting the stage for greater cooperation in the years to come.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
