Yagbonwura joins Asantehene for fifth Awukudae celebration
The Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii Kunuto Jewu Soale I, joined the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for the fifth Awukudae celebration of 2026, marking a historic display of unity between two of Ghana's most prominent traditional kingdoms.
The Yagbonwura arrived with a high-powered delegation of about 500 chiefs, elders and other dignitaries from the Gonja Kingdom. He sat in state alongside the Asantehene as both traditional rulers received homage from the gathering.
Awukudae, one of the most significant events on the Asante traditional calendar, is observed nine times each year at 42-day intervals. The celebration assumes greater importance when it precedes an Akwasidae Kese festival.
The ceremony attracted paramount chiefs, royals, members of the diplomatic community, the Ghanaian diaspora and other distinguished guests who paid homage to the Asantehene.
The highlight of the event was the coming together of the Gonja and Asante kingdoms, with both sides showcasing their rich cultural traditions in a colourful display of heritage and unity.
The visit further strengthened the longstanding relationship between the two kingdoms and provided an opportunity for the traditional leaders to discuss issues of mutual interest, deepen cooperation and promote peace, unity and the preservation of Ghana's cultural heritage.
Among the dignitaries present were the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the Savannah Regional Minister, Salisu Be Awuribe, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Yussif Sulemana, the Member of Parliament for Salaga North, Alhaji Alhassan Mumuni, the Member of Parliament for Sawla Tuna Kalba, Andrew Dari Chiwitey, members of the Regional Security Council and the Kenyan High Commissioner to Ghana, Colonel (Rtd.) Shem Ishahilidza, who also led a delegation to pay homage to the Asantehene.
Several guests presented gifts to the Asantehene in recognition of his contributions to Asanteman and the nation. The Yagbonwura also presented assorted gifts as a symbol of goodwill and friendship.
A cultural performance by a delegation from the Gonja Kingdom added colour to the occasion as they performed the Damba dance to depict the first historic encounter between the Yagbonwura and the Asantehene. The performance was warmly received by the large crowd, with many Gonjas living in the Ashanti Region joining the dancers in celebration.
In a speech delivered on his behalf, the Yagbonwura said the visit reflected his commitment to strengthening unity and collaboration between the Gonja and Asante kingdoms in line with their shared historical ties.
He noted that the visit came at a time when traditional authorities were expected to play a leading role in preserving Ghana's customs and traditions, stressing that such efforts were essential not only for safeguarding cultural heritage but also for promoting tourism and supporting national development.
"This encounter is a game changer and a giant step for us to collaborate to improve the lives of our people," he said.
The Yagbonwura observed that the institution of chieftaincy has consistently been recognised by legislation and the Constitution as an important pillar in national development, particularly in the administration of rural communities and the management of agricultural resources.
"Numerous studies have shown that despite controversies over the relevance of this institution, chiefs remain pivots around whom local communities thrive," he added.
He called on traditional rulers across the country to demonstrate the continued relevance of the chieftaincy institution by working together to improve the welfare of their people.
"I therefore want to appeal to the traditional rulers in Ghana to take this opportunity to prove to sceptics that the chieftaincy institution is ready to take the appropriate steps to better the lives of community members."
He added, "As traditional rulers, we have a sacred responsibility to preserve our customs and traditions while guiding our people towards peace and prosperity."
The Yagbonwura also commended the Asantehene for his contribution to national peace building, particularly his role in resolving the Dagbon chieftaincy dispute.
"Your pivotal role in the successful resolution of the Dagbon chieftaincy dispute despite all strong skepticism remains a shining example of statesmanship, wisdom and leadership," he said.
Responding through the Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu III, the Asantehene expressed appreciation for the Yagbonwura's visit, describing it as a significant step in strengthening the relationship between the two kingdoms.
Addressing the Yagbonwura's appeal for greater collaboration in resolving chieftaincy and land disputes, the Asantehene said measures had already been put in place to address such issues within the Asante Kingdom.
He also pledged to reciprocate the visit.
"I will reciprocate the honour done Asanteman by your visit. I will also lead a delegation from Asante Kingdom to pay you a visit as well."