BY GRACE ZIGAH
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has arrived in the United States for a two-week working visit, but a warm family reunion captured public attention as the Asante monarch prepares to headline the Akwasidae Kese celebrations in Maryland.
The Asantehene was seen in a video with his wife, Lady Julia Osei Tutu, and their two children at an elegantly furnished residence in the United States.
The private family moment quickly became a subject of interest on social media after the footage captured Otumfuo exchanging warm greetings with his family before they settled into conversation. The residence featured African-themed artwork and other furnishings that provided the setting for the union.
The Asantehene’s US visit comes ahead of the Akwasidae Kese Grand Durbar, scheduled for August 30, 2026, at Bowie State University in Maryland. The celebration forms part of Millennium Excellence Week 2026, a programme centred on culture, leadership, business and heritage.
Among those present to welcome Otumfuo was Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Victor Emmanuel Smith, alongside Aisha N. Braveboy, Prince George’s County Executive, Nananom and other distinguished guests.
One of the notable moments in the footage came when Otumfuo held the hand of his daughter, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem Osei Tutu, before formally introducing her to Ghana’s ambassador.
His son, Nana Kwame Kyeretwie, was also present. He is currently pursuing undergraduate studies in astronomy at Wesleyan University after graduating from DPS International Ghana in 2025.
While the family reunion provided a personal side to the Asantehene’s visit, his broader American itinerary is focused on a series of cultural, business and investment engagements.
The Asantehene is scheduled to launch MEA America 2026 with the Otumfuo Invitational golf tournament at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Virginia.
The Millennium Excellence Foundation said the event formally opened Millennium Excellence Week on Monday, August 24, with Otumfuo striking the ceremonial first ball.
The choice of a golf course to begin the week is deliberate, according to Millennium Excellence Foundation President Nana Agyeman Prempeh.
“We are opening the week on a golf course deliberately. Before the summits and the ceremonies, there is a morning where people walk the holes together and find what they have in common. That is how partnerships actually start.”
Among the featured participants is Kodwo (Kojo) Mills, founder and managing partner of Vibranium Capital Group, described as an Africa-focused investor who has generated more than $1 billion in investment returns across 25 years on the continent.
Olajuwon Ajanaku, co-founder of Eastside Golf, and David Lubotta, president and managing partner of DML Capital Partners, were also listed among participants.
The Akwasidae Kese Grand Durbar will serve as the major cultural climax of the week-long programme.
Before the August 30 durbar, the schedule includes a Royal Guest Lecture at Howard University on August 25, followed by the Africa Business & Investment Summit at MGM National Harbour from August 27 to 28.
The Millennium Excellence Awards ceremony and Gala Dinner are scheduled for August 29 at the Warner Theatre and JW Marriott.
The programme will culminate with the Akwasidae Kese Grand Durbar at Bowie State University on August 30.
