Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, His Excellency Benjamin Anani Quashie, led staff from the Pretoria mission to participate in the revered Akwasidae festival on Sunday, March 15, 2026. The event, held in Johannesburg at the invitation of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, brought together members of the Ashanti community and international guests to honor the king.
Akwasidae, a sacred celebration observed every sixth Sunday according to the Ashanti calendar, allows citizens and visitors alike to pay homage as the Asantehene sits in state, adorned in traditional regalia amid drumming, dance, and royal procession.
High Commissioner Quashie’s attendance underscores the growing cultural exchanges between Ghana and South Africa, where diaspora communities and diplomatic missions actively preserve heritage abroad. Staff from the Ghana High Commission joined in the rituals, reflecting respect for the Asante Kingdom’s enduring traditions and reinforcing people-to-people connections beyond formal bilateral relations.
The festival’s relocation to Johannesburg highlights the significant Ashanti presence in South Africa and provides an opportunity for cultural continuity among expatriates. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s invitation to the Ghanaian delegation signals continued goodwill and shared African values of unity and respect for traditional leadership.
This participation aligns with Ghana’s broader diplomatic efforts to promote Pan-African solidarity through culture. As one observer noted, such events bridge histories and foster mutual understanding in a diverse continent. The High Commission described the day as a proud moment of homage and shared identity.
