The ancient town of Wenchi in the Bono Region came alive with pomp, circumstance and deep-rooted tradition recently, as Ohemaa Pokua Afoa Dankoto II was sworn in as the new Queenmother of the Wenchi Traditional Area.
The colourful ceremony, held at the Ahenfie Yefiri Royal Family Palace, brought together hundreds of people, including chiefs, queenmothers, elders, family members and scores of well-wishers across the country.
Known in private life as Nana Ama Pokua Dekyi, the 62-year-old newly installed queenmother is a businesswoman.
Her rise to the stool has been welcomed by many who believe her experience, leadership and commitment to community service will greatly benefit Wenchi.
Enthusiastic crowd
Clad in red and black attire and surrounded by royal attendants, the new queenmother took her oath before the Paramount Chief of Wenchi, Osagyefo Ampem Anye Amoampong Tabrako III, amid drumming, dancing and cheers from the enthusiastic crowd.
Ohemaa Pokua Afoa Dankoto II, Wenchihemaa being carried through the principal streets of Wenchi
Her enstoolment marked not only the installation of a new traditional leader, but also the continuation of a revered royal lineage that has long guided the affairs of Wenchi.
Ohemaa Dankoto II succeeded the late Ohemaa Atoa Ampoforo Twewaa Otonsuo Seramangyedua III, who died in April, 2024.
Throughout the day, the palace grounds was transformed into a sea of colour as traditional warriors, Asafo groups and cultural troupes performed to celebrate the historic occasion.
Women clad in brightly coloured cloths sang traditional songs in praise of the royal family, while talking drums announced the arrival of eminent chiefs and dignitaries.
Unity
Speaking after the oath, Ohemaa Dankoto, said she would prioritise unity and harness the energy and talent of the people to develop Wenchi, adding that development could only come when they were united.
“I will work tirelessly with chiefs, kingmakers and the people of Wenchi to advance the development of the traditional area,” she said.
Ohemaa Dankoto pledged her loyalty and commitment to the people of Wenchi and promised to respond to the call of the town when the need arose.
She said, “My ancestors served the town of Wenchi excellently during their days and that has given me this opportunity also to serve”.
Ohemaa Dankoto called for prayers and support, stressing that her success would depend on the collective efforts of the entire community.
The Paramount Chief of Wenchi, who administered the oath and officially unveiled the queenmother, congratulated her on accepting what he described as a “sacred responsibility”.
He expressed confidence in her ability to serve both the royal family and the people of Wenchi with wisdom, humility and dedication.
“I am confident that Nana Ohemaa Afoa Pokuaa Dankoto II will work hard and serve the people of Wenchi in the manner expected of her,” he said.
Osagyefo Amoampong Tabrako assured her of his full support and pledged to work closely with her to promote peace, unity and development in the area.
Dignity, integrity
The Abakomahene of the Wenchi Traditional Area, Nana Ameyaw Owusu Ansah Ababio, urged the new queenmother to uphold the dignity of the stool and preserve the values of the royal family.
He advised her to lead with integrity and attract opportunities that would benefit the people of Wenchi.
“Honour the stool with dignity and it shall be well with you in every endeavour,” Nana Ababio said.
For the people of Wenchi, the enthronement of Ohemaa Dankoto II represented more than the installation of a new queenmother.
Some residents were optimistic that under the guidance of Osagyefo Amoampong Tabrako III and Ohemaa Dankoto II, a new chapter of unity and development had begun for Wenchi.
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