Ashanti overlord Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has declared that he has restored the spirit and soul of Ashanti by receiving artefacts looted from Kumasi approximately 150 years ago at the Manhyia Palace.

Seven golden artefacts, taken from Kumasi in 1874, were traced to the Fowler Museum in California, United States.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II successfully secured the artefacts after numerous unsuccessful attempts by his predecessors, including Otumfuo Agyemang Prempeh II.

A durbar of chiefs was organized at the Manhyia Palace to unveil the artefacts and commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Sagrenti War, which occurred in 1874.

This event marks the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's ascension to the Golden Stool.

“When we came here, Otumfuo, His Royal Majesty and I will quote him. He said that he has been able to return our (Asante) soul to its original place. “

“The items are still items that have spiritual relevance to us. They are still active; they would be activated and they would be used.”

Professor Kwasi Ampene of the Department of Music at Tufts University in Massachusetts, United States, facilitated the return of the artefacts.

In an exclusive interview with JoyNews, Professor Ampene stated that the Asantehene is delighted with the return of the pure gold artefacts, considering them a restoration of the Asante soul to its original place.

According to Professor Ampene, a member of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences who extensively studied Asante culture, the items hold spiritual significance for the Asante Kingdom and will be actively used.

The artefacts include Asipim chairs made of silver, Sika Amena necklaces, armbands, and anklets – all crafted from pure gold.

Another set of artefacts is expected from the British Museum in April this year and will be unveiled on May 12, 2024, during the Akwasidae Festival celebrations.

Professor Ampene commended Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for initiating the return and acknowledged Opemsuo Osei Tutu Ababio for his efforts in empowering the facilitation process.

Ivor Agyemang Duah, the Technical Advisor to the project, informed Joy News that the artefacts will be accessible to the general public at the Manhyia Palace Museum once the museum undergoes rehabilitation.