Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (R) with other officials holding the dummy stamp
SUBLIME LOOKING commemorative stamps of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, which is to honour the Ashanti King for his extraordinary leadership and unique contributions to the country’s growth in the last 25 years, has been unveiled at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
The grand event was graced by the Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, former Chief Justice, Justice Anin Yeboah, the Managing Director of the Ghana Post, Bice Osei Kuffour and other top chiefs.
In her address, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful commended the Asantehene for his invaluable contributions to the transformation of the country in the last 25 years, indicating that, virtually all the governments under this period have benefitted from the Asantehene.
“His 25-year reign has been a testament to unwavering commitment to preserving our cultural heritage, promoting education, and lifting the social economic well-being of our people.
“And I dare say no pivotal decision has been taken by any of our leaders within this 25 years without Otumfuo’s input being given graciously behind the scenes,” the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation said.
She continued, “As we launch this stamp today, we pay tribute to a traditional ruler who has distinguished himself and contributed immensely to the development and progress of his people and the country as a whole in several spheres of our lives.”
Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful applauded Ghana Post for their vision and dedication in deservingly honouring Otumfuo, saying, “This launching today is more than just a postage instrument. It is a representation of the indelible mark that Otumfuo has left on the fabric of our beloved country.
“Through their efforts, we can celebrate the legacy of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II through philately, making history by launching the first ever crypto stamp in Africa as well.
“This commitment to preserving our cultural heritage is truly commendable and I commend the board and management of Ghana Post for this great initiative. Let this stamp and this collection, which I urge everyone here to buy, keep and pass on to the next generation.
“Let it be testament to the indomitable spirit of our fathers, a symbol of our resilience and a reminder that our roots are the foundation upon which our future is built,” she said.
The commemorative stamp, Ursula Owusu continued, “is therefore a reflection of our national pride and identity,” stressing that, “We did so for Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh and Otumfuo Opoku Ware II.”
She said the honour done to Otumfuo “is a reminder of the inextricable link between our traditional values and our modern aspirations, reminding us that our rich cultural heritage is the foundation upon which our nation’s future is built.”
The Asante Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu, said “in the name of Otumfuo, we gracefully appreciate the honour done to the King today by Ghana Post,” adding that the Asantehene is a great and visionary leader, who deserved to be commended and honoured for his sacrifices for the country and its people.
“Otumfuo is endowed with benevolent wisdom,” he declared, adding that the Asantehene, despite his unique position in society, is a down-to-earth person, who respects all manner of people.
“He is not a dictator, he consults his Paramount Chiefs for our opinions before taking decisions. He also serves as a fatherly figure and corrects us when necessary,” the Asante Mampong Paramount Chief said about the Asantehene.
FROM I.F. Joe Awuah Jnr., Kumasi
