Dr. Ben K.D. Asante Enstooled as Paramount Chief of Juansa
Story By Michael Ofosu-Afriyie, Kumasi
The kingmakers and traditional authorities of the Juansa Traditional Area, located in the Asante Akim North District, have officially installed Dr. Ben K.D. Asante, the former CEO of Ghana Gas as their new Paramount Chief.
Selection Process:
The nomination was spearheaded by the Omanhemaa (Queen Mother) in consultation with the local kingmakers.
Following a unanimous approval from the traditional council, the selection received the prestigious formal endorsement of the Asantehene, His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, on December 15, 2025.
On December 22, 2025, a high-powered delegation from the Manhyia Palace, led by legal practitioner Baffoɔ Kwabena Atta Adjei, formally introduced the Omanhene-elect to the Juansa community during a colorful public ceremony.
Rites of Passage
According to palace sources, Dr. Asante’s transition to the stool will involve two significant swearing-in milestones:
Local Coronation:
A traditional rite of passage conducted among the sub-chiefs and elders of the Juansa Traditional Area.
Royal Induction:
An official swearing-in before the Asantehene at the Manhyia Palace to solidify his place within the Asanteman Council.
Professional Legacy:
Beyond his new traditional responsibilities, Dr. Asante is a globally recognized figure in the energy sector.
With over 30 years of international experience, his career as an oil and gas engineer has spanned North America, Africa, and Asia.
His expertise has been sought after by premier global institutions, including the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank.
Dr. Asante’s academic credentials are equally distinguished. He holds:
Doctorate (PhD) in Chemical and Petroleum Engineering.
Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in the same field.
A current appointment as an Associate Professor of Engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
Local observers have hailed the appointment as a historic “convergence of professional excellence and traditional leadership,” signaling a progressive era for the Juansa Traditional Area.
