A KING IN EXILE: Asantehene Nana Agyeman Prempeh in the Seychelles islands.

(An Exhibition)

This Exhibition presents, through photographs and other archival materials, an insight into the life of Nana Agyeman Prempeh I. Nana Agyeman Prempeh I was the Asantehene (King) of the Asante Empire in present-day Ghana, reigning from 1888 to 1931. When the British began expanding their influence in the Gold Coast, they attempted to annex the Asante Empire. Prempeh I, seeking to preserve Asante sovereignty, refused to sign treaties that would cede control to the British. In 1896, British forces invaded Kumasi, the Asante capital, and arrested Prempeh I and other royal family members. Nana Agyeman Prempeh I was then exiled to the Seychelles Islands, where he spent nearly 27 years.

In 1924, Nana Agyeman Prempeh I was allowed to return to Kumasi. The Asante Empire had been incorporated into the British colony. He continued to play a ceremonial and cultural role, focusing on the preservation of Asante customs and traditions until his death in 1931. Nana Agyeman Prempeh l’s legacy endures as a symbol of Asante resistance, cultural pride, and resilience under colonial rule.

Open to the public as from 12 to 19th November
Seychelles National Library.