Stories and facts
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, born Nana Barima Kwaku Duah on May 6, 1950, ascended to the esteemed position of the 16th Asantehene, officially enstooled on April 26, 1999. Carrying the distinguished name Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, he is a direct successor to the revered 17th-century founder of the Ashanti Empire, Otumfuo Osei Tutu I. In addition to his role as Asantehene, he holds the prestigious position of Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.
Nana Barima Kwaku Duah was born to Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, Asantehemaa, and Nana Kwame Boakye-Dankwa. Raised in the royal household of his uncle, Oheneba Mensah Bonsu, the Hiahene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II received early preparation for his future role from a tender age. He attended Sefwi Wiaso Secondary School and Osei Kyeretwie Secondary School, eventually pursuing accountancy studies at the Institute of Professional Studies, now known as the University of Professional Studies in Accra. His educational journey led him to the Polytechnic of North London, where he earned a Diploma in Management and Administration, later receiving an honorary doctorate in 2006.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's career ventures took him to Canada, where he served as a senior consultant at the Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company from 1981 to 1985. He returned to London, becoming the Personnel Officer at the HPCC Stonebridge Bus Garage Project. Later, he founded Primoda Financial Services Limited and ventured into the transport business with Transpomech International (Ghana) Limited upon his return to Ghana in 1989.
As the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is highly revered in the Ashanti Region and has played a crucial role in Ghanaian politics. Notably, he led efforts to restore peace to the Kingdom of Dagbon, heading the Committee of Eminent Chiefs instituted by President John Agyekum Kufuor. His commitment to peace was recognized with the 'Pillar of Peace Award' in February 2020.
Osei Tutu II's tenure has seen the destoolment of several sub-chiefs for various offenses against the stool, including insubordination, fraudulent activities, and violations of customary procedures.
In July 2019, the Asantehene announced his dedication to protect the water bodies of the Asante Kingdom, initiating a tree-planting project around Lake Bosomtwe. This environmental conservation effort involves collaboration with various stakeholders.
Established in April 2009, the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Charity Foundation focuses on education and health. Notable initiatives include the "Otumfuo Educational Fund," providing scholarships and support to students, and the Serwah Ampem AIDS Foundation. The foundation's impact extends to teacher awards, youth development projects, and collaborations with organizations like Global Communities.
Osei Tutu II is married to Julia Osei Tutu, and their union has been an integral part of his personal and philanthropic journey.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's legacy is marked by visionary leadership, commitment to peace, and significant contributions to education, health, and environmental conservation. As the Asantehene, he continues to shape the cultural and socio-economic landscape of the Ashanti Region and Ghana as a whole.
Explore through the life of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
