Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and Asanteman observed the final Akwasidae of the year, the ninth in total, a festival dedicated to showcasing the achievements of Asanteman. Despite its usual celebratory nature, the atmosphere was somber due to the Asantehene mourning the Berekumhene, a sub-chief of Asanteman.
Traditionally held at Dwabrem, the main event grounds at the Manhyia Palace, the Adaekese took place at the smaller venue, Nana Afia Kobi Park, within the palace this time. The event, though in a reduced setting, attracted various attendees, including traditional leaders, politicians, religious figures, and influential members of society.
Distinguished guests present included Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and his wife Samira, Energy Minister Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Interior Minister Ambrose Dery. Political figures such as the NPP’s National Chairman Stephen Ntim, General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua, and National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye, as well as members of the clergy, Imams, and other notable individuals, also graced the festival.
In adherence to tradition, many participants made donations of assorted drinks and undisclosed amounts to support the festival. Otumfuo Osei Tutu seized the occasion to urge residents and well-wishers to contribute to the $10 million fund for the renovation of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
The Adae Kese Festival, signifying a “big resting place,” holds significance among the Ashantis and is observed in two forms: Awukudae on Wednesdays and Akwasidae on Sundays. These celebrations serve to highlight the achievements of the Asante Kingdom, originating from their fight for independence in the Battle of Feyiase. The festival also includes the purification ceremony of Owura at ancestral burial shrines, coinciding with yam harvesting. Celebrated every two weeks in alignment with the Akan calendar, the festival marks specific achievements and milestones of the Ashanti people.
Leave feedback about this