Asanteman Diaspora Network
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To unite Asante sons and daughters across the diaspora, preserving our rich heritage while fostering community, cultural pride, and mutual support.
We serve as a bridge between our ancestral homeland and our global communities, empowering members through.
09/22/2026
TRAGEDY IN THE US: GHANAIAN PROFESSOR KOFI AKAMANI SHOT DEAD; WIFE ARRESTED
The Ghanaian community in the United States is mourning the death of Dr. Kofi Akamani, a 48-year-old Ghanaian professor at Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale, who was fatally shot in Illinois on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
Dr. Akamani was taken to Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, where he was pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the shooting.
His wife, 35-year-old Betty Akamani, was arrested following the incident and is facing multiple charges, as the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation.
Dr. Akamani was a professor of Forest Recreation and Conservation Social Science in SIU’s Department of Forestry. He joined the university in 2011 and was promoted to full professor in 2024. His work focused on natural-resource management, rural communities, environmental change and the relationship between people and their natural environment.
Born and raised in Ghana, Dr. Akamani began his academic journey at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where he earned a degree in Planning with a specialization in Urban Planning. He later obtained an MPhil from the University of Oslo in Norway and a PhD in Natural Resources from the University of Idaho.
His academic achievements extended far beyond the classroom. He contributed to major international environmental assessments and was involved in research concerning forests, biodiversity, water, food, climate change and sustainable development. He also served as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Sustainable Forestry.
Southern Illinois University has indicated that a memorial will be held to celebrate his life.
For a Ghanaian who travelled abroad, built an academic career and rose to the rank of professor, his death is a painful reminder of how suddenly life can change. May Dr. Kofi Akamani rest in peace.
This little girl wowed Asantehene
09/02/2026
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene hosted a luncheon for Nananom and some guests who participated in the 6th Akwasidae celebration in the United States.
He expressed his appreciation to all attendees for their support in making the celebration a success.
The King also commended the organising team for their dedication and the seamless ex*****on of activities held over the past weeks.
Otumfuo holds a high-level meeting with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.
His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has arrived at the Ga***rd National Resort & Convention Center for a special dinner with Prince George’s County Executives, business leaders, and other distinguished guests
Otumfuo was accompanied by the Queen Consort, Lady Julia Osei Tutu, Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Victor Emmanuel Smith, Nananom, and other distinguished guests.
His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, has arrived in the United States of America for a week-long official trip.
His Majesty was warmly received by Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Victor Emmanuel Smith, County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy, Nananom, and other distinguished guests.
The visit is expected to further strengthen the longstanding ties between Ghana and the United States while advancing important engagements during His Majesty’s stay.
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