The Okuapeman Fekuw of Metropolitan Chicago, coronated their new Queenmother, Nanahemea Obaatampa Abena Acheampomaa, Krontihene, Barima Kwasi Agyepong, and 5 other Sub-Chiefs and queen mothers at a colorful cultural ceremony. The event was held at the flashy Ballroom of the Holiday Inn, 500 Plaza Drive, Matteson Illinois, 60443.

The event was very rich in culture, tradition, picturesque, and well-attended. In addition, there was an absolute exhibit of cheerfulness, especially during the swearing-in and the fundraising dinner dance.

Unlike the traditional practice in Ghana, the selected candidates are not confined before the swearing-in and outdooring of chiefs or queen-mothers here.

Also, clearly missing was a Stool. Among Akans and most traditional areas in southern Ghana, in general, the symbol of authority of a traditional ruler is the stool. The Oath Swearing ceremony was spectacular as the New Queen, sub-chiefs, and queens, all clad in black fabrics, swore to “TAMKESIE” before their Chief, Okofrobour Nana Yirenkyi Bonsu.

In attendance to supervise the swearing-in and coronation ceremonies, were Odiasempa Krobea Asante I, Akuapem Kronti, Abakumahene and Okofo Ayeh Bekoe, Akuapem Obosomasehene. Each candidate recounted the lineage to a throne or a royal family in the Okuapeman traditional area they hail from before taking the solemn and sacred oath.

They were individually ushered in during the swearing-in amidst fontomfrom drumming. They were accompanied by an entourage of supporters. After each candidate was sworn-in, they thrilled the crowd by dancing to the throbbing fontomfrom music from the speakers of the deejay. It brought the wildest excitement and admiration from the large crowd gathered in the luxurious ballroom.

The inauguration took place immediately. There was an elaborate display of royal regalia when the newly crowned royals appeared publicly after the swearing-in. They were dressed in vibrant, rich Kente fabrics and gold ornaments. It was a beautiful sight to behold.

The inauguration, as expected, was a remarkable and unforgettable experience of culture for many attendees. The last coronation held here in Chicago was 15 years ago by the Asanteman Association of the Midwest, which brought in their current chief and Queenmother, Nana Addae Baffour, and Ohemaa Abena Amponsah, respectively.

The President of the Ghana National Council of Metropolitan Chicago, Mr. Kassim Abubakari, some of his executives, and council members were present. Other dignitaries in attendance include Chiefs, Queens, elders, and members of Ghanaian Communities across the USA and Canada, especially members of OKUSCA.

Togbe Addo I and Mama Edzeani I, of the Ewe Association of Metropolitan Chicago; Nana Kwame Bayin Okutseaku VIII and his Queen mother, Nanahemaa Afua Dansoaa, Fante Benevolent Society; Mion Suhudoo (peace) Naa Hajia Habiba Seidu-Fuseini, Dagbon Kingdom, who also doubles as Pagnaa Hajia Habiba Seidu-Fuseini of the Ghana Northern Union of Chicago; Nii Zoodi I and Naa Amobiye I of Wogbe-Dzeke; and others graced the occasion.

The president of Okuapeman Fekuw, Mr. Eric Duke Boafo, urged the new leadership to exhibit dazzling ideas that will lead the organization into a better future. He asked community members to support the Akropong School of the Blind.

The keynote speaker, President, and leader of the delegation from the National Secretariat of Okuapeman Association of USA and Canada (OKUSCA) were Ms. Akosua Kwabea Osafo Sedenu. Speaking on the theme “Our culture, our heritage”, she reminded the audience that culture is a guideline for decent and respectable behaviors. She urged Ghanaians in the diaspora to speak their native language with their children. She concluded by saying “As immigrants, we should not resist the culture we meet here but examine each new culture and see if it reflects good behavior”.

The organization used the occasion to celebrate, appreciate, and thank its first and retired queen-mother, Ohemaa, Akosua Pokua. She reigned for 35 years until she voluntarily retired recently.

The Okuapeman Fekuw in Chicago thanks all well-wishers who made the celebrations a memorable cultural experience!