Idris Elba features Asante Kingdom in new documentary on gold

Seven months after renowned British actor, Idris Elba paid homage to the Asantehene at the Manhyia Palace during Akwasidae, the 49-year-old multiple award winning actor has featured the Asante Kingdom in a new documentary on gold.

The piece , which explores gold, its relevance, and significance to the world has a portion which focuses on what he describes as “the cradle of the great kingdom built on gold”. “Gold is still very much of the culture of the kingdom,” Idris stated.

Value of Gold
The documentary titled, “Gold: A Journey with Idris Elba”, was commissioned by the World Gold Council to support its ambition to help the world understand the value of gold and harness its transformative power.
Created in partnership with Pioneer Productions, the piece explores the mysteries, stories and untold human relationship with the most precious metal.

Proud Ghanaian
In the documentary, which also features developments in other parts of the world, Idris explores his heritage in Ghana and specifically the Asante Kingdom where he recently visited and had the privilege of paying homage to the King, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

While in Kumasi, the British actor attended the traditional Akwasidae festival. As Otumfuo rode in palanquin to the Akwasidae durbar grounds, Idris said, “In fact , I’ve never seen anyone wearing so much gold . The King’s solid gold bracelets signify his personal authority.

“The Asantes believe their king wields divine power .it’s rare to have audience with the King so for me, to meet the great man is a genuine honour. One thing is for sure, gold transforms the Asante Kingdom and the economy.”

Tradition and history
Stressing how he felt going to his mother’s homeland to a royal reception by the Asantehene, Idris said, “It felt beautiful, and I felt privileged to go. I was really invited and welcomed. There is such an amazing array of tradition and history that made me feel proud to be Ghanaian.”

He added: “ I feel very thankful to have been able to experience what gold means to people, what gold means to history and also to tradition.  Gold has the power to transform.  I’ve learnt so much about gold that wasn’t obvious or expected and now my eyes have been opened which is a wonderful thing.”

World Gold Council
The World Gold Council stated: “Back to the homeland for a royal reception Idris takes a moment to reflect on his heritage, travelling to his mother’s homeland of Ghana, a modern-day kingdom built on gold, which still has gold visibly at its cultural heart today.”

“Idris dons traditional robes for the very special Ashanti Akwasidae Festival, that brings together all of the kingdom’s tribes to celebrate the lives and deeds of past rulers.”

“Idris is honoured to take part in the procession, which culminates in him meeting King Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in a very visible celebration of gold through jewellery and artefacts, representing old Ashanti fables and the symbolic importance of gold to the kingdom and its prosperity.”

David Tait, Chief Executive Officer, World Gold Council, said: “Gold has a positive impact across the lives of individuals, communities and economies, with much of the story to date left to imagination. On behalf of our members and the industry, we are delighted to bring the human stories of gold to life for the first time, working with Idris Elba to explore the value and evolution of gold.”