The President of Rotary International, Mr. Francesco Arezzo, and his wife, Mrs. Anna Maria Criscione, on Tuesday, February 11, 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, reaffirming Rotary International’s enduring commitment to humanitarian service and sustainable development.
The distinguished delegation was received by Baffour Owusu Amankwatia VI, the Bantamahene, who represented His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene. The Asantehene is currently on a leave of absence.
The visit formed part of Mr. Arezzo’s official engagements in Ghana and underscored Rotary International’s respect for traditional leadership and its resolve to strengthen partnerships that advance community transformation.
Welcoming the delegation to the seat of the Asante Kingdom, Baffour Owusu Amankwatia VI conveyed the goodwill and warm regards of the Asantehene. He commended Rotary International for its significant contributions to national and community development, particularly in the areas of healthcare delivery, water and sanitation, basic education and literacy, disease prevention, environmental sustainability, and youth empowerment.
He noted that collaboration between traditional authorities and international service organizations remains critical in addressing pressing social challenges and ensuring that development initiatives are inclusive, culturally appropriate, and sustainable.
Mr. Arezzo expressed appreciation for the honour of visiting the Manhyia Palace and engaging with the revered traditional leadership of Asanteman. He reiterated Rotary International’s guiding principle of “Service Above Self” and emphasized the organization’s global focus on promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water and sanitation, supporting education, protecting the environment, and strengthening local economies.
He further praised Rotarians in Ghana, particularly within District 9104, for their dedication and impactful service to communities. According to him, Rotary’s presence in Ghana continues to make meaningful contributions to improving lives, and partnerships with traditional institutions such as the Manhyia Palace are vital to sustaining that progress.
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; and other senior Rotary officials and members.
The courtesy call symbolized mutual respect and a shared commitment to service, unity, and socio-economic advancement. Mr. Arezzo’s visit is expected to further consolidate Rotary International’s engagement in Ghana and inspire continued collaboration aimed at delivering lasting and transformative development initiatives.
