Hundreds of people, including pupils and traders waving miniature Asanteman flags, filled the major streets of Kumasi on Thursday, September 3, 2026, to welcome Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, on his return from the United States.

On arrival at the Prempeh I International Airport, he reviewed a parade mounted by the security services and took the salute.

The reception was put together by Manhyia Palace, the Asanteman Council, the Kumasi Traditional Council, the Regional Coordinating Council and the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA).

Escorted by motorcades and horse riders, the Asantehene’s convoy took off from the plush looking airport to Airport Roundabout at about 12:20 p.m.

The procession continued through Krofrom, Suame Roundabout, Abrepo Junction, Gee Roundabout, Kejetia, Adum, KMA, Asafo Interchange and the Amakom Traffic Light before arriving at the Manhyia Palace at 3:25 p.m.

Customary rites were performed to mark his safe return, including a courtesy call on the Asantehemaa, Nana Yaa Akyiaa II.

Along the route, the Mayor of Kumasi, Hon. Richard Ofori Agyeman Boadi, together with heads of security agencies, chiefs, queen mothers and youth groups, joined the procession.

The Asante Monarch left Kumasi on August 23 as the head of a historic delegation to attend programmes of importance to Asanteman and the nation.

During his stay in the U.S., he participated in the MEA Otumfuo Golf Invitational, gave a Royal Guest Lecture at Howard University, and featured at the Africa Business and Investment Summit.

He also graced the Millennium Excellence Awards Gala and the 6th Akwasidae celebration in 2026 and held high-level talks with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

BY Thomas Awuah Asem