Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has been honoured with six newly created Adinkra symbols in recognition of his distinguished leadership.

The symbols, which were unveiled during the fifth Awukudae festival on Wednesday, June 18, were crafted by an indigenous financial advisory firm, Aliska Business Advisory and Research.

During the presentation of the symbols, officials from the institution indicated that the symbols were designed after extensive three-and-a-half-year research.

“Through our research, it came up that it’s advisable we get new authentic words to represent these new designs to set a tone that in the event when there are new words in academia, medicine, and arts, the council can come up with new words to match it,” the officials noted.

They noted that their extensive research placed particular emphasis on the Asantehene’s contributions, especially his efforts in preserving and promoting Asante arts, culture, traditions, and heritage.

Receiving the items, Otumfuo expressed gratitude, adding, “Twenty-six years ago, when I was going to Pampaso, I symbolically put my hands together, but many chiefs didn’t understand. I was in Apakankro. My grandchildren understand it, but many of the chiefs couldn’t understand it at the time.”

'Otumfuo Nsa', which implies 'The Hand of Otumfuo,' is the most prominent amongst them all. Manhyia Palace is expected to name the other 5 symbols at a later date following further consultation.

The second, which has two parallel hands, one pointing upwards and downwards, depicts the Asantehene’s free spirit to embrace different cultures.

The next figure, shaped like a bulging eye, describes Otumfuo's intelligence, one that is admired by leaders across the world.

The Asantehene's ability as a key advisor in the management of Ghana’s natural resources is illustrated through the fourth symbol.

The fifth symbol signifies his influence on sustainable development and bears the crest of Manhyia alongside the Golden Stool.

The final symbol draws attention to his enduring commitment to advancing education and research in the country. Adinkra symbols are visual representations of concepts and proverbs.

Traditionally, they have been widely featured in textiles, pottery, and logos and are often integrated into walls and architectural elements. Some can even be found on traditional Akan goldweights.

These symbols are also carved into stools used both domestically and for rituals. In recent years, tourism has influenced their application, leading to their appearance on modern items like T-shirts and jewellery.

The Asantehene is recognised locally and internationally for his leadership in promoting peace, democracy, and cultural preservation. Currently, he is leading a delegation to end the Bawku chieftaincy conflict that has taken the lives of many and displaced several others.