UK Returns Gold & Silver Artifacts To Ghana In A Loan Deal

The UK has returned numerous artifacts that were stolen over 150 years ago from what is now Ghana.

The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) and the British Museum have sent some thirty-two gold and silver objects on an extended loan to the nation. On Friday, it is anticipated that the items would be given back to the reigning monarch.

During battles between the British and the strong Asante people in the 19th century, they were taken from the Asante king’s court, also known as the Asantehene.

Before the items are formally received, they are currently in “safe hands” in Ghana, according to the monarch’s chief negotiator, Ivor Agyeman-Duah, who spoke to the BBC.

The Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi, the Ashanti region’s capital, is scheduled to display them next month as part of festivities honoring the silver jubilee of the current Asante King, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

According to the BBC, long-term loan agreements to return the objects had been reached in January. A gold peace pipe, a sword of state, and gold badges worn by officials tasked with purging the king’s soul are among the returning artifacts. The gold artifacts, which are thought to be endowed with the spirits of prior Asante kings, are the ultimate representation of the Asante royal administration.