Kumasi, Dec. 31, GNA - President John Agyekum Kufuor on Sunday joined hundreds of well wishers and sympathisers to pay homage to Otumfuo Osei Tutu 11, Asantehene during the celebration of the last Akwasidae for 2006 at Manhyia Palace in Kumasi. President Kufuor was accompanied by his wife Theresa, Mr Baleka Mbete, South African Speaker of Parliament, Ministers of State, Parliamentarians and members of the Diplomatic corps.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu clad in a traditional gold designed kente cloth, rode in a palanquin amidst intermittent dancing from the brazing sounds of "Fontomfrom" drums and "Atentenben", which were expertly played by the palace drummers who were among his large retinue. He went round the durbar grounds and greeted the people who stood and showered praises and adorations to wish him well for the future.

The Asantehene then sat in state to receive homage and gifts from the people amidst continuous drumming and dancing by "Nwomkro" and "Kete" groups. Some of the guests who presented gifts praised the Asantehene for his initiatives, especially in education, health and culture and wished God's blessings for him to continue with the good works for Asanteman and the nation.