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Otumfuo receives rousing welcome at Seychelles Islands

By Myjoyonline.com
General News Otumfuo receives rousing welcome at Seychelles Islands
APR 23, 2015 LISTEN

Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II was accorded a rousing welcome at the Seychelles International Airport on Wednesday.

The king is in the country, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, as a guest of honour at the Carnival International de Victoria, being held there.

This year's carnival would be attended by people from 29 countries who will showcase their culture in the form of music and dance.

Top government officials of the host country and their counterparts from Ghana including Tourism Minister, Ofosu Agyare, were at the airport to welcome the Asante king.

The Asantehene was accompanied by the Kumasi Mayor, Kojo Bonsu, as well as selected top chiefs from Asante kingdom.

News of Otumfuo's visit to the country which had spread like wildfire attracted many local people to the airport.

Seychelles Island has historical links with Asanteman which dates back to over hundred years.

The British in 1896 transported King Prempeh I, the then Asantehene and some other Asante chiefs to the Seychelles Islands.

This was after the Asantes, who were said to be very brave in war, waged series of warfare on the British colonialists.

Some descendants of King Prempeh I are still living in Seychelles Island where they consider as their home.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's visit to the Seychelles Islands is, therefore, historic and it is expected to spark emotions among Prempeh I's descendants and people who are affiliated to the story.

The Asantehene is expected to deliver a powerful message during the opening of this year's carnival, which is an annual affair.

Sources close to the king hinted that Otumfuo would visit some historical locations in the country during his short stay.

The king would particularly visit the place where his uncle, King Prempeh I lived during his 27 year stay in the country.

He would also meet and interact with the relatives of King Prempeh I.

The Asantehene would also hold bilateral talks with President James Michel of Seychelles, geared towards boosting the relationship between Ghana and the archipelago.

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