Omanghana
Strong winds have damaged a historic tree associated with the revered traditional priest Okomfo Anokye at Asante Agona in the Ashanti Region, drawing concerned residents to the site.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, as strong winds swept through the town ahead of rainfall.
Known locally as the Onton tree, the landmark is believed in Asante tradition to have been planted by Okomfo Anokye around 1690. If that date is accurate, the tree would be approximately 336 years old, although its age has not been independently verified.
Differing Accounts of the Damage
Initial reports said the tree had been uprooted by the storm. However, a local Unit Committee chairman, Henry Atta Buah, said a large branch had broken off and that the original stump remained rooted.
According to Mr Buah, the tree had previously fallen after being struck by a vehicle about seven years ago. He said the part damaged by the storm had grown after that earlier incident.
Mr Buah also said the Agonahene, Nana Obiri Komfo Anokye Boakye, and traditional elders performed rites and arranged for the fallen portion to be preserved.
Cultural Significance
The tree holds special meaning for residents because of its association with Okomfo Anokye, a central figure in the founding of the Asante Kingdom.
According to Asante tradition, Okomfo Anokye called the Golden Stool down from the heavens during the reign of Osei Tutu I. The stool remains a sacred symbol of the Asante nation.
Some residents have interpreted the storm damage as a spiritual sign, reflecting the landmark’s importance to the community.
Earlier Incident at Feyiase
The storm damage comes three years after a separate tree linked to Okomfo Anokye was cut down at Feyiase in the Ashanti Region.
The felling of the historic cola tree in November 2023 sparked concern among residents and traditional authorities. Its surviving stump was reported to have begun sprouting again the following month.
Source: Omanghana
