Otumfuo in London for lecture at British Museum on July 19; Will speak on the topic, “Asante, Past And Present And Heritage”
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is in London for a lecture at the British Museum on July 19.
Ivor Agyeman-Duah, an advisor to the Asantehene said in an interview from London on Monday, July 15 that the King will speak on the topic, “Asante, Past And Present And Heritage”.
Otumfuo flew direct from the Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi to London on July 13. His lecture is at the invitation of the British Museum.
Return of artefacts
In April 2024, the United Kingdom returned 32 Asante artefacts looted from Kumasi more than 150 years ago. The treasures were stolen from the court of the Asantehene, during 19th century conflicts between the British and the powerful Asante people.
The gold and silver items were sent on long-term loan to the Asante Kingdom by the British Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A). Among the returned artefacts are a gold peace pipe, a sword of state and gold badges worn by officials charged with cleansing the soul of the king.
The gold artefacts are the ultimate symbol of the Asante royal authority and are believed to be invested with the spirits of former Asante kings. The items are currently on display at the Manhyia Palace Museum.
