He has been designated as the distinguished guest for the Emancipation Day festivities in that nation.
After the eradication of slavery in 1834, the African Diaspora settled and contributed their traditions, imprinting a distinct element onto Trinidad and Tobago’s historical narrative. In 1985, a significant choice was undertaken to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved Africans by declaring a national day off.
The monarch departed Kumasi via a nonstop flight and landed at Piarco International Airport in the capital city of Port of Spain. Upon arrival, he received a warm reception from dignitaries including Dr. Amery Browne, the Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs; Paula Gopee-Scoon, the Minister of Trade and Industry; Randall Mitchell, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts; and Fitzgerald Hinds, the Minister of National Security.
Earlier on the same Saturday, an advance group accompanying the King, consisting of chiefs, courtiers, and administrative staff, also embarked on a direct flight from Kumasi.
A display of respect and honor was presented by the Quarter Guard at Piarco International Airport to extend a welcoming gesture.
Activities
Among various engagements, the Asantehene is scheduled to conduct formal visits to the President and Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, participate in a Trade and Investment Symposium aimed at enhancing economic exchange between Africa and the Caribbean, deliver the Asantehene Distinguished Lecture at both the University of the West Indies and the University of Trinidad and Tobago, and interact with the Ashanti Diaspora.
Relations
The historical ties between Asante and Trinidad and Tobago trace back to 1881 when Prince Kofi Nti, the son of Asantehene Kofi Karikari, arrived in the Caribbean nation. In 1883, Prince Kofi Nti was instrumental in the design and construction of a Signal Station at Fort St. George in Port of Spain.