South Africa returns 28 Asante treasures to Ghana in a symbolic gesture marking the end of a two-century-long struggle to preserve the kingdom’s cultural heritage.
This weekend, the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, the former capital of the powerful Asante Empire, will be the stage for a historic moment: the return of 28 gold treasures from South Africa to King Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. These 19th-century objects stand as a testament to the excellence of Asante craftsmanship and the cultural wealth of the kingdom. Among the treasures are linguist staffs, ornate swords, precious rings, ceremonial necklaces, and finely carved or polished weights.
A War for Memory: The Role of AngloGold Ashanti
This return follows a formal request from the Asante King earlier this year. The mining company AngloGold Ashanti, which has owned the objects since 2000, agreed to sell them back to Ghana. Initially, the treasures had been purchased by a Swiss collector before being sold.
Described by historian and Manhyia Palace Museum Deputy Director Ivor Agyeman-Duah as “masterpieces of goldsmithing,” these adornments embody a royal legacy, sophisticated governance, and an unwavering cultural identity.
Enriched with a new gallery dedicated to the recently returned objects, the Manhyia Museum will display these priceless works, offering an opportunity to explore the captivating history of the Asante Kingdom for Ghanaians and the rest of the world.
A Reparations Debate Rekindled
The return of these treasures is part of a broader trend of repatriating African cultural assets to their countries of origin. With the return of 67 objects this year, Ghana is becoming a key player in the struggle to recover African heritage. Prestigious institutions like the Fowler Museum at UCLA and the British Museum have also contributed by returning or lending artifacts to Ghana.
According to Yale researcher Lekgetho Mokola, this return is an important step. The process extends beyond Ghana, with countries like Nigeria actively negotiating for the repatriation of Benin bronzes looted in the 16th and 18th centuries.
Africa Turns a New Page in History
As pressure intensifies on European and American museums, countries such as France, Germany, and Belgium are starting to respond to these legitimate demands. In 2021, France made a historic gesture by returning 26 objects to Benin, marking a turning point in international cultural relations.
