Courtesy Calls to the Asantehene: An Insider Look at Visiting Manhyia Palace in Kumasi

When public figures visit Kumasi, it is common to see them at the Manhyia Palace making a courtesy call on Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

Have you ever seen these visits and asked yourself, “How do I get to meet the King?” It’s not as straightforward as just showing up, but it’s also not as out of reach as some may think.

These visits often include ministers, dignitaries, athletes, musicians, corporate leaders, and sometimes international guests. But how do they happen, and who is actually allowed to meet the King?

Courtesy Calls Require Formal Approval

Visits to the Manhyia Palace are not open to the general public. You cannot simply walk in and expect to meet the Asantehene.

Every formal visit is arranged in advance through the palace protocol office. A request may be sent in advance and may include the visitor’s background, the purpose of the visit, and proposed dates.

Once the palace reviews the request, they may respond with guidance and, if approved, a scheduled appointment.

While this general process reflects what is known through cultural protocol and community experience, there is no official public document confirming the specific details required in a request.

In some cases, liaisons affiliated with the palace, including respected diasporans or cultural advocates, may also help facilitate introductions or referrals when appropriate.

That said, it is possible to catch a glimpse of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II when visiting the palace grounds. There have been many moments when he took time to speak to people nearby, but these are not guaranteed.

Local community members and residents with pressing concerns, such as family disputes or land issues, may at times seek an audience with Otumfuo.

This typically happens through traditional council meetings. Many of these matters are handled within the chieftaincy system and do not require the direct involvement of Otumfuo.

When he is involved, it is often because the issue has broader cultural, political, or high-profile importance.

The process typically passes through local elders or chiefs before reaching the palace and must still adhere to formal cultural channels.

Visitors Wear Traditional or Formal Clothing

Most visitors dress in a way that shows respect for the occasion. Many wear traditional attire such as kente or cloth.

Others may arrive in formal Western clothing, especially if they are government officials or international guests.

One is not better than the other. Kente is often chosen by those who wish to honor the culture, but both types of attire are seen during these calls.

For men, especially, there is a way to approach the King when wrapped in Kente cloth. The cloth is draped in a specific style, typically leaving one shoulder bare, and the movement is often deliberate and intentional.

This is the same respectful approach often seen during Akwasidae when guests greet the King in public.

These small gestures reflect a deeper cultural understanding of posture, presence, and respect in royal settings.

Visitors Often Bring a Gift to Show Respect

While not mandatory, it is respectful and common for visitors to bring a small gift.

This might be a framed photo, a cultural item, a book, or branded merchandise. For many, offering a gift is not about protocol but about showing honor and goodwill.

Palace Meetings Follow a Structured Process

Courtesy calls typically take place in a designated reception area within the palace grounds.

It is not inside the Manhyia Palace Museum, and it is not Otumfuo’s personal residence, though the palace grounds remain the official seat of Asante royal tradition.

The process usually follows a set structure:

• Visitors are introduced by a palace official
• They greet and bow before the stool designated for the Asantehene
• A short speech or message is exchanged
• A linguist (Ɔkyeame) repeats the words of the Asantehene for the visitors
• Any symbolic gifts are presented
• Photos may be taken, on approval

The entire visit is guided by tradition and follows long-standing cultural practices, including formal greetings, specific seating arrangements, and the presence of court officials.

Visitors are expected to approach with respect and reverence.

It is important to speak politely and avoid using the left hand to gesture or point, especially when addressing the Otumfuo or his court.

The Role of the Chief Protocol Officer: Mr. Saahene

If you have watched any videos or photos from courtesy calls or other royal events, you may have noticed Mr. Saahene often standing beside Otumfuo, helping coordinate the flow of the visit.

Mr. Saahene is the Chief Protocol Officer. He is responsible for guiding formal procedures and maintaining the decorum of the event.

As part of the palace team, he ensures that tradition and protocol are followed with care.

His role is both ceremonial and practical, helping to manage everything from visitor introductions to timing and structure.

Mr. Saahene has diligently and humbly worked beside Otumfuo for many years.

His presence is seen not only during courtesy calls but across nearly all public and formal appearances where Otumfuo is present.

Why the Ɔkyeame Repeats the King’s Words

Have you ever wondered why someone repeats what the King says during a formal visit?

The position of Ɔkyeame, or royal linguist, has historical roots going back to the early Asante State of Adansi. That role helped preserve dignity, avoid offense, and ensured the leader’s statements were clearly understood.

Today, the linguist continues to serve as a respected intermediary, speaking on behalf of the King in both ceremonial and official settings.

It is important to note that this does not mean the King is unable to speak for himself.

The role of the Ɔkyeame has become an honored tradition that reinforces respect, order, and structure in royal communication.

Media Coverage Is Handled by Palace-Approved Outlets

Courtesy calls are private in nature, taking place away from the general public.

While the meetings themselves are not open to the public, highlights are often shared afterward with the palace’s approval.

The media coverage is usually handled by the palace’s own team or trusted outlets. Opemsuo Radio, which identifies itself as “the Official Mouthpiece of Asanteman” on its website and serves in that role officially, is regularly seen documenting these visits and later shares selected highlights on its official platforms.

Opemsuo Radio often include a copyright disclaimer noting that, with the exception of live interviews, they do not own the rights to all audio or video used in their broadcasts. These are shared under fair use for news, education, or promotional purposes, in line with Ghana’s Copyright Act (Act 690) and U.S. Section 107 Fair Use provisions.

The Manhyia Palace Museum Is Open to the Public

While most courtesy calls are reserved for dignitaries or those who have formally requested an audience, you can still learn about the Asantehene and royal traditions by visiting the Manhyia Palace Museum.

It is open to the public and offers insight into the history, symbols, and leadership of the Ashanti Kingdom.

While this is not the same as an audience with Otumfuo, visiting the museum still offers a respectful and enriching way to connect with Ashanti royal traditions.

Courtesy calls to the Asantehene reflect deep cultural respect, proper procedure, and community recognition.

Many of us have our own stories of witnessing, participating in, or hearing about audiences with Otumfuo or past Kings.

Whether passed down through family or experienced firsthand, these moments reflect a living tradition.

Access is shaped by cultural practice, not social standing, and continues to be guided by established customs.

These visits are a clear example of how tradition remains central to Ashanti leadership and identity. They show a culture of reverence, order, and ceremonial value that remains respected today.

Have you ever had the privilege of meeting Otumfuo or being present for a courtesy call? We would love to hear your story.

Explore other blog posts on Explore Kumasi to learn about royal traditions, historical landmarks, and cultural life in the Ashanti Region.

AKWAABA!! IF THIS POST CAPTURED YOUR ATTENTION, KEEP EXPLORING KUMASI WITH US AT ExploreKumasi.com. Yɛdaase!

You’ll find cultural guides, historical insights, and travel resources to help you experience Kumasi and the Ashanti Region more deeply.

💬 Want to stay connected? Join our community on Facebook to share your thoughts and discoveries.
📌 Inspired by what you read? Pin an image to come back later or share with someone planning their own Kumasi journey.

Thank you for exploring with us.