By Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada | June 19, 2026
Toronto witnessed an extraordinary display of Ghanaian culture and tradition on Wednesday, June 17, as the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, held a grand durbar at Sankofa Square ahead of Ghana’s opening match against Panama at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The event, attended by more than 5,000 people, transformed downtown Toronto into a vibrant celebration of Ghanaian heritage, drawing members of the Ghanaian diaspora, Canadian dignitaries, tourists, business leaders, and football supporters from across North America.
The durbar formed the cultural centerpiece of Otumfuo’s visit to Canada, where he was serving as Special Guest of Honour at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Business Summit organized by the Canada-Ghana Chamber of Commerce.
A Symbolic Gathering at Sankofa Square
The choice of venue carried deep meaning.
Sankofa Square, formerly known as Yonge-Dundas Square, was selected because of the significance of the Akan word “Sankofa,” which means “go back and fetch it.” For many Ghanaians living abroad, the gathering symbolized a return to their roots and a reconnection with their cultural heritage before Ghana’s return to the FIFA World Cup stage.
By early morning, sections of Yonge Street had been transformed with Ghanaian flags, colorful kente cloth, and traditional Adinkra symbols. The square echoed with the sounds of drums as cultural groups from Kumasi and Toronto prepared for the royal arrival.
Royal Procession and Cultural Spectacle
The ceremony began with traditional libation and prayers offered for the ancestors, the safety of the Black Stars, and the success of Ghana’s World Cup campaign.
Chiefs from various parts of Asanteman then processed into the square dressed in elaborate kente cloth and adorned with gold ornaments. In keeping with tradition, they paid homage to the Asantehene upon his arrival.
One of the most memorable moments came when Otumfuo entered the square, greeted by cheers from thousands gathered to witness what many described as the largest Ghanaian royal durbar ever held on Canadian soil.
Seated in state, the Asantehene received greetings from community leaders, traditional authorities, students, entrepreneurs, and representatives of various Ghanaian associations across Canada.
The cultural programme featured energetic performances of Adowa and Kete dances, accompanied by Fontomfrom drumming. Youth groups born and raised in Canada also took part, creating a blend of traditional Ghanaian culture and contemporary diaspora identity.
Otumfuo’s Message to the Diaspora and Black Stars
In his address, delivered primarily in Twi, the Asantehene praised Ghanaians living abroad for preserving and promoting Ghanaian culture despite being far from home.
He encouraged members of the diaspora to remain connected to Ghana and to continue contributing to national development through investment, innovation, and knowledge transfer.
Turning his attention to football, Otumfuo delivered a powerful message to the Black Stars ahead of their match against Panama.
“Go and make Ghana proud. Play with unity and determination,” he urged, drawing loud applause from the crowd.
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening economic ties between Ghana and Canada through trade, investment, and partnerships being discussed at the World Cup Business Summit.
A Gathering of Culture and Diplomacy
The durbar was more than a cultural event. It also served as a platform for strengthening relations between Ghana and Canada.
Among the dignitaries present were traditional leaders from Ghana, representatives of the Ghana High Commission in Canada, business executives, and community leaders. The gathering reflected the growing influence of the Ghanaian community in Canada and the increasing importance of diaspora engagement in Ghana’s development agenda.
Carrying the Energy to the World Cup
Social media platforms were flooded with photos and videos from the durbar under hashtags such as #OtumfuoInToronto and #SankofaSquare, turning the event into one of the most talked-about Ghanaian diaspora gatherings of the World Cup.
A Historic Moment for Ghana in Canada
For many attendees, the durbar represented far more than a ceremonial gathering. It was a celebration of identity, culture, unity, and national pride.
By bringing the traditions of Manhyia Palace to the heart of Toronto, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II demonstrated the enduring strength of Ghanaian culture and the important role the diaspora continues to play in projecting Ghana’s image on the global stage.
As the celebrations continued into the evening following Ghana’s World Cup victory, many reflected on a memorable day when Toronto experienced the grandeur of Asanteman and the passion of Ghanaian football all at once.
