During the 19th century Anglo-Asante wars, valuable treasures were stolen from the court of the Asante king. Recently, the United Kingdom has agreed to return 32 gold and silver artefacts that were looted over 150 years ago during the clashes between the British and the Asante people. The treasures, 15 from the British Museum and 17 from the Victoria and Albert Museum, have been given on a six-year loan to Ghana.
Efforts by Ghanaian authorities to reclaim these treasures have been ongoing, and now they will be showcased at the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi as part of the celebrations honoring the king’s silver jubilee. Chief negotiator Ivor Agyeman-Duah confirmed the return of the items, explaining that they are on loan to the palace.
This return comes amidst growing international pressure for former colonial powers to return African artefacts. Other countries, such as Nigeria, are also in negotiations to have stolen treasures returned from museums and collectors in the US and Europe.
The returned objects from the Asante kingdom hold immense cultural and spiritual significance for the Ashanti people. Agyeman-Duah expressed that this loan agreement marks a significant moment in their efforts to reclaim and preserve their heritage.
The items being loaned include a 300-year-old sword and gold regalia used in important ceremonies. The exhibition showcasing these treasures will be held starting from May 1st.