Asantehene Makes History as First African King in Prestigious Calendar
This year 2024 is the year of Asanteman. Our King, His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II will celebrate His Grand Silver Jubilee (25th Anniversary on the Golden Stool). The activities will coincide with the King’s historic feature in the 2024 Pirelli Calendar, marking the first time an African monarch is included.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene or King of the Ashanti Kingdom in Ghana, has made history as the first black monarch to feature in the prestigious Pirelli Calendar, according to broadcaster Caleb Nii Boye. CNN also confirmed the Asantehene’s inclusion in the 2024 edition.
The calendar, gifted to celebrities and VIPs since the 1960s, brings much-deserved representation and visibility of African culture to the global stage. Otumfuo has been a prominent traditional ruler for over 25 years.
Calendar Photographed By King’s Grandson Prince Gyasi
This edition of the Pirelli Calendar was shot by 28-year-old Prince Gyasi, the first black and African photographer in its 50+ year history. Gyasi is the grandson of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Known for working with brands like Puma and Balmain, Gyasi introduced visually captivating images highlighting the rich native Ghanaian culture. He said his inspiration came from childhood memories reading with his mother and grandfather.
Through his trailblazing work, Gyasi hopes to inspire other African youth to reach their potential: “I want to provide a chance for other kids like me to see these images and to be inspired.”
Calendar Release Timed With Silver Jubilee Celebrations
The 2024 Pirelli Calendar theme is “Timeless” – fitting as it coincides with 25 years since Otumfuo was enstooled as Asantehene in April 1999.
He joins the calendar alongside stars like Idris Elba, Angela Bassett and Naomi Campbell. The unveiling at his Silver Jubilee celebrations will further underscore his influential leadership.
For a quarter century, Otumfuo has reigned over the rich cultural kingdom. His presence in the calendar brings historic representation to both the Ashanti and Africa as a whole.
From years of reading with his grandson to now appearing alongside global superstars, the Asantehene’s legacy continues growing to inspire future generations.
