Kokofu (Ash.), June 16, GNA - The Kokofu Traditional Council, acting in conjunction with the Manhyia Palace, is to begin annual celebration of a new festival to be known as "Opemsuo" in honour of Opemsuo Osei Tutu I, credited to be the founder of the Asante Kingdom. The highlight of the celebration would be a pilgrimage to Anyinam, a small community near Kokofu in the Amansie East District, the birthplace of the late king.

Barima Offe-Kwasi Okogyeasuo, Omanhene of Kokofu, told the Ghana News Agency that a monument would be erected at "Onyina-Ampon" where his umbilical cord was buried. The umbilical cord was buried under an "Onyina" tree. The place has ever since remained sacred. It is only the Asantehene and the Kokofuhene who are allowed to go there. Even with the two, they would have to walk barefooted on blankets spread along the route.

Barima Offe-Kwasi said other monuments would be erected at the "Kakawere" stream where the mother of Opensuo Osei Tutu who, whilst in labour and was travelling across, promised to make an offer of sacrifice after safe delivery. The Omanhene said he was hopeful that the celebration of the festival would draw more tourists to the area and help promote investments there. Barima Offe-Kwasi said the Kokofu Traditional Council was liasing with the Manhyia Palace to fix a date for the celebration of this year's "Opemsuo".