Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II recently delivered a powerful lecture at the British Museum in the United Kingdom, addressing the ongoing issue of looted African artefacts that remain in European possession despite efforts by their rightful owners to retrieve them.

Speaking on July 19, 2024, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasized the profound cultural and spiritual significance of these artefacts, many of which date back to the early formation of the now united Asante Empire.

He highlighted that, unlike the Western perception of these items as mere artistic creations, they hold a deeper meaning as a compendium of the soul of their people.

“To the West, these artefacts may appear as inanimate creations of artistic value,” he noted. “However, in our tradition, when a chief embarks on his final journey, a stool is consecrated to memorialize his reign. This symbolizes his continuous spiritual presence in the state's affairs, and successors are required to swear an oath to uphold his good deeds.”

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II corrected misconceptions and educated the audience on the traditional concepts and cultural heritage embodied in these artefacts.