Six newly designed Adinkra symbols have been introduced to celebrate the exemplary leadership of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene of the Ashanti Kingdom.
Foremost among them is “Otumfuo Nsa” — meaning “The Hand of Otumfuo.” Featuring two parallel hands, this symbol represents inclusivity and cultural harmony, reflecting the Asantehene’s firm stewardship of heritage and his visionary leadership both within Ghana and beyond.
The new symbols, developed by Aliska Business Advisory and Research — a Ghanaian financial advisory firm based in Accra — were presented to the King during the fifth Awukudae festival on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. The designs are the product of a rigorous three-and-a-half-year research project focused on the Asantehene’s contributions to preserving and promoting Ashanti arts, culture, and heritage.
According to officials from Aliska, the initiative aims to introduce authentic linguistic expressions for contemporary symbolism in academia, medicine, arts, and leadership. They noted, “It became evident through our research that there is a need to establish new authentic terms for these designs — setting a precedent for future symbolic representations.”
Otumfuo welcomed the gesture, reflecting on how a similar hand symbol he made at his enstoolment 26 years ago was initially misunderstood by some traditional leaders, but has now been accurately interpreted by the research team.
“Twenty-six years ago at Pampaso, I clasped my hands symbolically. My grandchildren understood it, but many chiefs did not,” he recalled.
The remaining five symbols — to be officially named in consultation with the Manhyia Palace — include:
- A two-hand motif, one pointing up and the other down, symbolising unity between northern and southern cultures.
- A bulging eye design representing the King’s wisdom and foresight, admired by leaders in Ghana and abroad.
- A motif reflecting Otumfuo’s guidance on natural resource governance.
- A staff with the Manhyia crest and Golden Stool, symbolising sustainable national development.
- A symbol celebrating his contributions to research and education advancement.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II also revealed plans to present these newly unveiled symbols as a cultural gift to the King of Eswatini during his upcoming visit to the Manhyia Palace.