Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has departed the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi ahead of a scheduled trip to the United States.
The Asantehene left the palace for the Prempeh I International Airport, where he was expected to begin his journey to the United States. His departure was captured in footage showing the traditional ruler leaving the Manhyia Palace as preparations for the trip were completed.
The journey forms part of a planned two-week visit to the United States, during which the Asantehene is expected to participate in a number of activities.
According to information from the Manhyia Palace, Otumfuo had earlier announced that he would spend two weeks in the United States. He made the announcement during a meeting of the Kumasi Traditional Council on August 17, 2026.
During the meeting, the Asantehene indicated that his trip would involve several activities from the beginning of his visit. He also entrusted the affairs of Asanteman to the appropriate traditional authorities during his absence.
The planned visit is expected to include engagements involving the Asante Kingdom and the Ghanaian community in the United States.
One of the activities associated with the visit is the Africa Business Investment Summit scheduled to take place in the United States on August 27 and 28. The Asantehene is expected to grace the event as part of his engagements during the trip.
His visit also comes at a time when the Asantehene continues to play an active role in promoting Ghanaian and Asante culture, heritage, development and international relations.
Over the years, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has undertaken several international engagements, using such opportunities to promote Ghana’s cultural heritage and strengthen relationships with institutions and communities outside the country.
The current trip is also significant because of the range of activities expected to take place during his stay. The Manhyia Palace previously indicated that the visit would be packed with engagements from the first day.
Before leaving Ghana, the Asantehene also made arrangements for the affairs of Asanteman to continue smoothly during his absence.
His departure from Manhyia Palace attracted attention, with footage of the traditional ruler leaving the palace circulating among the public.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has been Asantehene since 1999 and remains one of Ghana’s most prominent traditional leaders. His international engagements frequently attract interest because of his role as custodian of Asante traditions and his involvement in initiatives relating to education, health, culture, peace and development.
The United States trip is therefore expected to provide another opportunity for the Asantehene to engage with individuals and organisations while representing the Asante Kingdom on the international stage.
Following his planned two-week stay in the United States, the Asantehene is expected to return to Ghana. He had also announced that he would take a one-month leave after returning from the trip before resuming his official duties.
The trip has consequently attracted attention from members of the public and the Asante community, particularly because of the activities planned during the visit.
As Otumfuo begins his journey, attention will now turn to his engagements in the United States and the outcomes of the various activities scheduled during his stay.
Watch the video below:
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has set off from the Manhyia Palace for the Prempeh I International Airport, ahead of His Majesty’s trip to the United States. pic.twitter.com/xu043eOlIK
— The Palace View (@ThePalaceViewX) August 23, 2026
Source: Thepressradio.com
