PICTURES: America Witnesses Akwasidae Kɛseɛ for the First Time as Otumfuo Makes History
The historic celebration at Bowie State University featured royal pageantry, vibrant cultural performances and spectacular dances by American ladies.
- First-Ever Akwasidae Kɛseɛ Held in USA
- Otumfuo Leads Historic Celebration in Maryland
- American Ladies Wow Crowd with Spectacular Dances
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, on Sunday, August 30, 2026, presided over a historic Akwasidae Kɛseɛ Festival in Maryland, United States, marking the first time the major Asante traditional celebration has been held on American soil.
The grand celebration, held at Bowie State University in Bowie, Maryland, brought together prominent dignitaries, traditional leaders, members of the Asanteman Council and members of the Ghanaian and African communities to celebrate Asante culture and heritage.
Among the distinguished guests were Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy, alongside a delegation of Paramount Chiefs, Queen Mothers and other traditional leaders.
The event was characterised by a spectacular royal procession, vibrant traditional drumming, music, dancing and a magnificent display of rich Asante kente and traditional regalia.
Adding a special touch to the celebration, some beautiful American ladies graced the event with spectacular traditional-inspired dances, captivating the gathering and adding to the colourful cultural display.
The historic festival also provided an opportunity for people in Maryland to experience the richness of Asante traditions, with the Asantehene and his delegation showcasing the customs, heritage and cultural identity of the Asante Kingdom.
The Akwasidae Kɛseɛ formed the grand climax of Millennium Excellence Week America 2026, which ran from August 24 to 30 and featured several activities, including a golf invitational, a royal guest lecture and the Africa Business Investment Summit.
The Asantehene was accompanied by a large delegation comprising Paramount Chiefs, Queen Mothers, divisional leaders and other members of the Asanteman Council.
The celebration also featured sacred rites, traditional music and energetic performances, creating an atmosphere of cultural pride and unity.
The historic event further served to kick off African Heritage Month in Maryland, strengthening cultural ties between Maryland, Ghana and the wider African community.
Ahead of the main durbar, Otumfuo also engaged local leadership, including Governor Wes Moore, as part of his official engagements in the United States.
The Maryland Akwasidae Kɛseɛ therefore marked a significant moment in the global promotion of Asante heritage, bringing the traditions and splendour of the Golden Stool to an international audience.
Pictures Credit: Lawson Media newscaster Oheneyere Adwoa Apirebi, provided the pictures to LawsonMediaOnline.com from the historic celebration.
