It was a gathering of paramount chiefs flanked by their people.
An exhibition of colourful rich Asante culture.
Strictly worn Kuntunkuni symbolises a bad day, a reflection of an event which occurred 150 years ago dubbed ‘Sagrenti War’.
January 1874 remains in the history books of the Ashantis as the day a war was declared on the British.
The battle of Amoaful and a reprisal in Kumasi saw heroes from both the Asante and British armies fallen.
The ‘Kuntunkuni’ durbar at the Manhyia Palace was to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Sagrenti War.
Spectacular display of culture heralded royalty, exuding an envious heritage, an occasion which brought together high profile government officials, diplomats, industry players.
The arrival of Otumfuo erupted the crowd.
The Asantehene wore a regalia christened ‘ɛnsɔ me nhwɛ’ to wit ‘don’t dare me’.
He sat in state and received homage from the dignitaries.
Rich Ashanti cultural display at the 150 years Sagrenti War Durbar of Chiefs at Manhyia Palace#AkomaFM pic.twitter.com/aqFQTz6gCZ
— AKOMA 87.9 FM (@akoma879fm) February 8, 2024
Asantehemaa Nana Konadu Yiadom III also received rousing welcome from the dignitaries.
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former President John Agyekum Kufuor, former President John Mahama, leader of Movement for Change Alan Kyerematen, and ministers of state were present at the event.
The durbar also saw the display of the first consignment of looted artefacts
The Palace received the first batch of looted artefacts from the American Museum.
The Palace is also expected to receive another batch from the British Museum.
By Benjamin Aidoo|Akoma FM|Onuaonline.com|Ghana
