Asante Kingdom welcomes back royal artefacts after 150 years

Stories and facts

The United Kingdom has returned 32 royal artifacts looted from Ghana's Asante Kingdom, including golden royal regalia, pillaged during the 19th-century Anglo-Asante Wars, notably the Sagrenti War of 1874.

The artifacts, symbolizing Asante authority, will be on loan for up to six years, bypassing the Ghanaian government in a direct agreement with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the current traditional ruler. This return coincides with the silver jubilee anniversary of Asantehene Osei Tutu II, commemorating his efforts to negotiate repatriation.

The artifacts hold immense cultural significance and will be publicly displayed, offering Ghanaians the first chance in 150 years to witness their heritage.

Explore the history and the return of the artifacts below.