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Imperial Honours for the Golden Stool: Prince Estifanos Matewos Sends Royal Tribute to Asantehene’s Grand Anniversary
By: Emmanuel Austin Baah
Founder of the African Royal Group and President of the United Africa Royal Assembly, Prince Estifanos Matewos has formally conveyed his regrets to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for being unable to attend the prestigious World Meets in Ghana – Executive Dinner Ball scheduled to mark the 27th anniversary of the monarch’s accession to the Golden Stool.
In an official letter dated 24 April 2026 from his private office in Johannesburg, South Africa, the royal dignitary expressed gratitude for the invitation and paid glowing tribute to the revered traditional ruler, whose reign he described as one of wisdom, dignity and enduring commitment to the heritage of the Ashanti Kingdom and African civilisation.
The high-profile dinner is expected to bring together distinguished guests, diplomats, business leaders, royals and influential personalities from across the world to celebrate the remarkable milestone of one of Africa’s most respected monarchs.
Prince Matewos explained that urgent obligations within his office had forced a sudden change to his travel plans, making it impossible for him to attend the ceremony in person. Despite his absence, he stressed that the decision was taken with full appreciation of the importance of the occasion and the deep esteem in which he holds both the Asantehene and the Ashanti Kingdom.
Tribute to the Asantehene’s Leadership
In his message, Prince Matewos praised Otumfuo Osei Tutu II as a beacon of moral and traditional authority whose influence extends beyond Ghana to the wider African continent and the global diaspora.
He noted that the Asantehene’s reign has become synonymous with cultural preservation, unity and development, while also strengthening the relevance of Africa’s royal institutions in modern society.
The letter further commended the King’s support for continental causes, including advocacy for the recognition of slavery as one of the greatest crimes against humanity, as well as calls for reparations and restitution. According to Prince Matewos, such interventions continue to inspire renewed confidence in African institutions and traditional leadership.
Although unable to attend personally, Prince Matewos disclosed that he has appointed a Special Envoy to represent him at the event and to deliver his greetings, respect and best wishes to the Asantehene and all invited guests.
The gesture is expected to reinforce the growing ties between African royal houses and cultural institutions, as leaders across the continent seek greater collaboration in heritage promotion, economic partnerships and pan-African unity.
A Global Celebration of Tradition and Influence
The World Meets in Ghana – Executive Dinner Ball has generated significant interest both locally and internationally, reflecting Ghana’s growing status as a destination for diplomacy, investment and cultural exchange.
As preparations gather momentum, the celebration of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s 27 years on the Golden Stool is set to become more than a royal anniversary—it will stand as a symbol of enduring leadership, African pride and the power of tradition in shaping the future.