Accra, Aug. 05 GNA - The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has emphasized the need for traditional leaders in Africa to help preserve customs and traditions as means of keeping their cultural heritage. He said areas such as Royal Mausoleums for kings and queens and other important traditional leaders should be well preserved for generations yet unborn.

A statement issued and signed by G. B. Osei-Antwi, Media Relations Manager, Menhyia Palace said Otumfuo Osei Tutu II wrote this in the Mausoleum's visitor's book when he led chiefs to accompany him on a 10-day tour of Morocco to pay their respect to the tombs of King Mohammed V, and King Hassan II, who have been preserved at the Mausoleum.

A minute silence was observed in honour of the departed kings. The statement said Otumfuo Osei Tutu praised the leaders of Morocco for the efforts they had made to honour their departed royals, adding that apart from the respect for the past kings, the mausoleum served as tourist attraction.

Mr. Adbelwahab Benmansour, a Historian who had served at the Palace for 50 years, briefed the Asantehene about the distinguish leadership of King Mohammed V, who is considered as the liberator and founder of Morocco.

The Historian also informed the, Otumfuo Osei Tutu that, King Mohammed led his people to independence in 1956, and when he died, he was succeeded by his son, King Hassan II, who came consolidate the good works of his father, and united the country. King Hassan, who died in July 1999 was succeeded by his son King Mohammed VI.

During the tour, the Asantehene and his delegation visited the Al Akhawyn University in Ifrane, which offer degree courses in General Engineering, Computer Science, Master of Science and Soft Ware Engineering.

He also visited the Fes Old King's palace where the King could keep 12,000 horses as well as the Marrakech, Morocco's second largest city where he was welcome at the Mayor's residence, and later toured the Jamaa Lafua market square.

The Asantehene and his delegation have since arrived back home where Mr. Akwesi Osei Adjei, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and other traditional rulers from the Manhyia palace met them at the Kotoka International Airport.