The President of Rotary International, Mr. Francesco Arezzo, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Anna Maria Criscione, on Tuesday, February 11, 2026, paid a courtesy call on His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
The delegation was received on behalf of the Asantehene by Baffour Owusu Amankwatia VI, Bantamahene, as Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is currently on a leave of absence.
The visit formed part of Mr. Arezzo’s official engagements in Ghana and highlighted Rotary International’s continued commitment to strengthening partnerships with traditional authorities and key stakeholders in advancing humanitarian service and sustainable development.
Welcoming the Rotary International President and his delegation to the seat of the Asante Kingdom, Baffour Owusu Amankwatia VI conveyed the warm regards of the Asantehene and expressed appreciation for Rotary’s longstanding contributions to community development in Ghana. He acknowledged the impactful interventions undertaken by Rotary Clubs across the country, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare delivery, water and sanitation, disease prevention, and youth empowerment.
Mr. Arezzo, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the honour of visiting the Manhyia Palace and engaging with the revered traditional leadership of Asanteman. He reaffirmed Rotary International’s global mission of “Service Above Self” and emphasized the organization’s dedication to promoting peace, supporting basic education and literacy, providing clean water and sanitation facilities, fighting disease, and strengthening local economies.
He commended Rotarians in Ghana, especially within District 9104, for their unwavering commitment to improving lives and transforming communities through impactful service projects. He noted that collaboration with traditional authorities remains essential in ensuring that development initiatives are community-driven, culturally respectful, and sustainable.
The delegation included the District Governor of Rotary District 9104, Nana Yaa Pokua Siriboe; Incoming District Governor Frank Owusu Debrah; Past District Governor Jeffery Afful; Past District Governor David Osei Amankwah Junior; as well as other senior Rotary officials and members.
The courtesy call at the Manhyia Palace symbolized the strong relationship between Rotary International and the traditional leadership of Asanteman. It further underscored the shared commitment to unity, service, and the socio-economic advancement of communities.
Mr. Arezzo’s visit to Ghana is expected to strengthen Rotary’s footprint in the country and inspire greater collaboration aimed at delivering sustainable, life-changing interventions for the benefit of present and future generations.
