The Nungua Mantse, His Royal Majesty Oboade Nortse King Prof. Odaifio Welentsi III, has called for stronger collaboration between Ghana and Brazil, emphasizing their shared history and cultural identity.
He stated that this common foundation should inspire both nations to work together in building a better future, particularly for the younger generation.
Nungua Mantse, who is also President of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, emphasized that by exchanging knowledge, technology and promoting cultural ties, Ghana and Brazil can move beyond being mere state partners to becoming active stakeholders in building a prosperous society for the people.
"The relationship between Ghana and Brazil dates back several decades. With the establishment of diplomatic friendship between Ghana and Brazil, this relationship was built on mutual respect, trust, and shared prosperity," he said.
"As you may know, Ghana and Brazil share a common past and strong identity that connects our two countries more than any other relationship. This common identity is the reason we should strive to build a better future for our people, especially the younger generation," he added.
Event
King Prof. Odaifio Welentsi III made these remarks during a visit by the Deputy Head of Mission at the Brazilian Embassy in Ghana, His Excellency Alexandre Souto, to the palace last Wednesday.
The visit focused on strengthening cultural ties and exploring new avenues for development cooperation between Ghana and Brazil.
The colourful event brought together chiefs, queenmothers from surrounding villages, palace staff, and loyal subjects to witness the historic visit of the Brazilian diplomat.
Also in attendance was the vibrant Nungua Obonufoi Cultural Troupe, led by David Nii Afotey Odai and his assistant, Nii Otu Kwashie Quaye, who energized the ceremony with traditional drumming, singing, and dancing.
A highlight of the day came when Mr Souto joined the dance floor under the guidance of some queenmothers, drawing loud cheers from the enthusiastic guests.
The Nungua Mantse also delighted attendees when he took his turn to dance, earning admiration from all present.
In attendance were wife of the King, Naa Afriyie Nii Laryeafio II, Chief of Katamanso, Tatse Nii Laryea Akuetteh X, Nungua Oblantai Mantse, Nii Bortey Okplεn II, Palace Linguist, Nii Aryee Atobrah, Odiko Mantse, Nii Akwei Bonsrah II, Mokwe Gonno Mantse, Nii Afotey Yentumiwu III and Nii Bortey Alavanyo II, Alavanyo Mantse.
Others were Kweidornuman Manye, Naa Aforkai Walaafoi II, Odarteitsewe Manye, Naa Dede Dromor II, Nungua Sakumono Manye, Naa Borley Amisah II, Odikoman Manye, Naa Korklu II, New Adjiriganor Manye, Naa Ayorkor Nyεomo II, Santor Akpatsagornor, Naa Borley Ehilεkεkε II and Faayor Manye, Naa Korklu Tesaa II.
The rest were Dormiabra Manye, Naa Momo Minimifeebo I, Akornorkum Manye, Naa Momo Blematesaa III, Nungua Tεbibianor Manye, Naa Kwarley Dzenmadzianye II, Nungua Amanfo Manye, Naa Korklu Morbonalor III and Nungua Yeiaman Manye, Naa Borteley Adu Osanyam I.
Commendation
The Nungua Mantse further expressed his delight at hosting Mr Souto, commending his active engagement with key Ghanaian institutions such as the Ghana Tourism Authority and the National Commission on Culture.
He praised Mr Souto’s efforts to promote culture, tourism and people-to-people exchange, noting that while many diplomats work to strengthen ties with Ghana, Mr Souto’s approach stands out as exceptionally dedicated and commendable.
"We are truly delighted to host you. I have become aware of your recent engagement with relevant state institutions, notably the Ghana Tourism Authority, National Commission on Culture, and many others. With the ultimate goal to promote culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchange, this is commendable," he said.
"Let me add that, in the past, I have seen efforts by officials of various foreign missions here in Ghana, undertaking different activities to deepen diplomatic ties between Ghana and their respective countries. While that is appreciated, this is the first time I have seen a diplomat taking this noble course a notch higher. This is heartwarming," he added.
Deepening ties
For his part, Mr Souto expressed his honour at visiting the Nungua Traditional Council, stating that his visit reflects the interest of the Brazilian people and government in deepening ties with African heritage, particularly with traditional leaders and communities.
He outlined three goals: to strengthen cultural and economic ties, explore possible donations to support local development, and collaborate on future cultural and economic initiatives.
He acknowledged the important role of chiefs in Ghana, recognized by the constitution and highlighted Brazil’s strong African heritage — much of which traces back to Ghana.
Referring to the Tabon community of Brazilian returnees who settled in James Town and established chieftaincy, he emphasized the value of understanding shared traditions and maintaining strong cultural connections.
“Thank you for your kind words and for welcoming me,” Mr. Souto said. “It is truly important for me to be here because, as you mentioned, Brazil is a large country with the largest population of people of African descent outside of Africa. This gives us many shared connections with the continent.”
“Given these deep ties, Brazil established diplomatic relations with Ghana just a few years after Ghana’s independence. Since then, we have been working to strengthen our relationship more and more.”
“I feel deeply honoured to be here as a guest, and I am committed to elevating this relationship to an even higher and more meaningful level,” he added.
