Nana Ateko Antwi iii Rides in Palanquin at Kamenaman Yam Festival 2026, Steals Show at Grand Durbar

The 2026 Kamenaman Yam Festival and Akwasiadae Kese reached a climax on Sunday when *Nana Ateko Antwi* was carried shoulder-high in a beautifully decorated palanquin amidst cheers, drumming and dancing.

Dressed in rich kente cloth and adorned with traditional gold ornaments, Nana Ateko Antwi waved to the ecstatic crowd who had gathered at the durbar grounds to celebrate this year's festival, which was themed on thanksgiving, unity and development.

The riding of the palanquin, known in Akan as "Apakan", is a significant cultural symbol that signifies royalty, honour and authority. The moment Nana Ateko Antwi emerged in the palanquin, the entire durbar ground erupted with appellations and traditional songs.

According to traditional elders, the palanquin ride is reserved for highly revered chiefs and royals who have distinguished themselves in service to the traditional area.

"Nana Ateko Antwi's ride in the palanquin is not just for fun, it is a symbol of our pride as people of Kamenaman. It shows the dignity of our chieftaincy institution," one elder told this reporter.

This year's Kamenaman Yam Festival brought together chiefs, queen mothers, youth groups, and citizens home and abroad, and was graced by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Stan Xoese Dogbe as Special Guest of Honour.

The festival also saw the Paramount Chief, Nana Osae Nyampong VI, appealing for reparation and development for Kamenaman after 70 years.

The colourful display by Nana Ateko Antwi added pomp and pageantry to the celebration and will remain one of the most memorable moments of the 2026 edition.