To commemorate 100 years since the return of Asante King Nana Agyeman Prempeh I from exile in the Seychelles, a two-week photographic exhibition titled “The King in Exile” has been officially opened at the Seychelles National Library in Mahe, the capital of the Seychelles Islands.
The event was graced by the country’s President, Wavel Ramkalawan, who expressed admiration for Prempeh’s resilience and his embrace of Christianity during his years in exile.
The exhibition, which began on November 11, was rotated across other islands after its initial display. It attracted significant attention and praise, with President Ramkalawan, who is also a Canon of the Anglican Church, attending the opening alongside descendants of Prempeh living on the island, Ghanaian residents, and other dignitaries.
Curated by historian Ivor Agyeman-Duah, Cecille Kalebi, the Permanent Secretary of the Seychelles Institute for Culture, Heritage and the Arts, and Kwame N. Acquah, the Ghanaian Honorary Consul of Seychelles, the exhibition serves as a profound tribute to the Asante King’s endurance and to Yaa Asantewaa’s bravery during the Anglo-Asante War of 1900. The curators emphasized that the event is not only a celebration of the Asante heritage but also a testament to the lasting friendship between Ghana and Seychelles, symbolizing unity and shared cultural pride.
Her Excellency Francisca Ashietey-Odunton, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa and accredited to Seychelles, also attended the event. She reflected on Nana Agyeman Prempeh I’s unwavering dedication to his homeland, reminding attendees of the importance of patriotism and the preservation of cultural heritage. She encouraged the youth and others to draw inspiration from Prempeh’s legacy, highlighting his steadfast commitment to Asante identity during his 28 years of exile.
As part of a larger celebration, Her Excellency announced a series of events in Ghana to honor Prempeh’s memory. These include a symposium at the Osei Tutu II Hall in Manhyia Palace on November 22, a Mini-Durbar on November 23, and a memorial church service at St. Cyprian Cathedral in Kumasi on November 24.
The exhibition features a section dedicated to Asante textiles, including Kente cloth from Bonwire and other weaving villages. This contribution was made possible by Maame Konadu Mintah of Mintoma Limited in Ghana. The textiles add depth to the display, showcasing the vibrant artistry and cultural significance of Asante craftsmanship.
Since its opening, “The King in Exile” exhibition has drawn remarkable crowds, offering visitors an intimate and immersive exploration of Prempeh’s trials, resilience, and the enduring pride of Asante culture. Each photograph and accompanying story weaves a narrative that pays tribute to a heritage that has withstood centuries of change.
Open to the public, the exhibition invites Ghanaians, Seychellois, and history enthusiasts to reflect on the life of a leader who shaped the history of the Asante Kingdom and continues to inspire generations. Through this celebration of cultural identity, the exhibition underscores the timeless relevance of Nana Agyeman Prempeh I’s legacy.
