Kumasipioneer.com Truth l Accuracy l Fairness
The Chairman of both the Kejetia Petty Traders Association and the Combined Kejetia Traders Association, Nana Akwasi Prempeh, has been elevated to traditional leadership and named chief-elect of Atwima Nerebehi in the Atwima Nwabiagya District of the Ashanti Kingdom.
The elevation marks a significant transition for one of Kumasi’s most visible market leaders, who for years championed the welfare of traders at Kejetia Market, widely regarded as one of West Africa’s largest commercial hubs.
Nana Prempeh served for several years as head of the Kejetia Petty Traders Association before rising to lead the Combined Kejetia Traders Association.
During his tenure, he was credited with mediating disputes, advocating for traders’ rights, and fostering unity among the various market groups operating in the congested commercial center.
His grassroots approach and accessibility earned him wide respect across Kumasi’s trading community and among stakeholders in the informal sector.
With his selection and enstoolment as chief-elect of Atwima Nerebehi, Nana Prempeh now moves from civic and market leadership into the traditional institution. In that role, he is expected to contribute to local governance, community development, and the preservation of Ashanti customs and values.
Residents of Atwima Nerebehi have welcomed the announcement, expressing full acceptance of Nana Prempeh as their incoming traditional ruler.
According to arrangements by the traditional council, the oath-swearing and formal enstoolment rites for Nana Akwasi Prempeh will take place on *Monday, August 10, 2026*, at the Bantama Palace in Kumasi.
The ceremony is expected to attract a broad gathering of chiefs, queen mothers, government officials, market leaders, and residents from Atwima Nerebehi and neighboring communities.
Traditional authorities say the event will usher in a new chapter for Atwima Nerebehi under Nana Prempeh’s leadership and reaffirm the community’s ties to the Golden Stool.
Stakeholders in Atwima Nwabiagya say they expect the new chief-elect to draw on his experience in organization, negotiation, and community mobilization to advance development priorities in the area.
Key areas of focus cited include education, health care delivery, sanitation, road infrastructure, and youth empowerment and job creation.
Many described his elevation as a reward for years of selfless service, noting that his background in representing ordinary traders has prepared him for the responsibilities of traditional leadership.
“As chief, he will now be set apart from ordinary social life and will assume the customs, responsibilities, and sacred duties that come with occupying a stool in the Ashanti Kingdom,” a senior traditional leader noted.
Community members are optimistic that Nana Prempeh’s track record of advocacy and problem-solving will translate into tangible development for Atwima Nerebehi.
