Kumasi came alive on Thursday, September 3, 2026, as hundreds of residents, schoolchildren, traders, chiefs, queen mothers and youth groups lined the principal streets of the city to give a rousing welcome to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, upon his return from the United States of America.



Upon his arrival at the Prempeh I International Airport, Otumfuo inspected a security parade and took the salute before beginning a grand procession through the city.

Led by motorcades and horses, the convoy set off from the Airport Roundabout at 12:20 p.m., passing through Krofrom, Suame Roundabout, Abrepo Junction, Gee Roundabout, Kejetia, Adum, KMA, Asafo Interchange and Amakom Traffic Light, before arriving at Manhyia Palace at 3:25 p.m., where customary rites were performed.

The Kumasi Mayor, Hon. Richard Ofori-Agyeman Boadi, alongside security heads, traditional leaders and other dignitaries, joined the procession as residents lined the streets, waving miniature Asanteman flags and cheering the Asantehene.
Otumfuo departed Kumasi on August 23, 2026, leading a historic delegation for a series of engagements of significance to Asanteman and the nation.

During his stay in the United States, the Asantehene participated in several high-profile engagements, including the MEA Otumfuo Golf Invitational, Royal Guest Lecture at Howard

 

University, Africa Business and Investment Summit, Millennium Excellence Awards Gala, 6th Akwasidae, and a high-level engagement with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.


His international engagements continue to underscore his stature as a respected global traditional leader. Over the years, Otumfuo has addressed the United Nations General Assembly, delivered lectures at Harvard University and Oxford University, and delivered the Silver Jubilee keynote at the British Museum in July 2024, while serving as Chancellor of KNUST.

As the world looks ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Otumfuo also served as Special Guest of Honour at the FIFA World Cup Business Summit and became the first Asante King to visit Poland for the TOP CHARITY ChangeMAKERS Gala in
Warsaw.