AngloGold Ashanti has returned a collection of historic Ashanti artifacts to the Manhyia Palace, marking an important milestone in the preservation and celebration of Ashanti heritage.
Speaking at the ceremonial event, Stewart Bailey, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Director of AngloGold Ashanti, emphasized the company’s commitment to honoring the rich cultural legacy of the Ashanti Kingdom.
Bailey began by expressing deep gratitude to His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, and the dignitaries present, including Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan and Ghanaian leaders.
He highlighted the collaboration between AngloGold Ashanti, the Manhyia Palace, and other key stakeholders as a testament to the power of unity in achieving meaningful cultural milestones.
Bailey referenced a South African saying: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” He explained how this philosophy guided the project to repatriate the artifacts, underscoring the spirit of collaboration that brought together the Asantehene’s leadership, AngloGold Ashanti’s expertise, and the efforts of cultural guardians like Mr. Kwasi Adu-Gyamfi Osei, curator of the regalia.
“The artifacts are more than just beautiful objects—they are priceless testaments to the expert craftsmanship of the Ashanti people, forged centuries ago here in Kumasi,” Bailey said
The artifacts, which include exquisite regalia and gold-crafted items, were originally purchased by AngloGold’s predecessor in 2000 from Europe, where they had been held for years. Recognizing their cultural importance, the company displayed them in a museum in Cape Town, South Africa, enabling many Africans to view them for the first time in modern history.
Bailey acknowledged the efforts of previous AngloGold management in ensuring the artifacts remained on the African continent and expressed his personal honor in overseeing their final return to Kumasi, their place of origin.
3News
