Over the weekend, actor Michael Jai White took to social media to provide an update of his personal life, revealing news that was both unexpected and inspirational. During a trip to Ghana's 'Full Circle Festival' hosted by fellow actor Boris Kodjoe, the current Akwamuhene (paramount chief of the Akwamu State in Ghana) enstooled Michael Jai White as a 'King' of Akwamu.
Said in his own words on his Instagram page, the actor wrote "it was an incredibly high honor to be enstooled (crowned) a king of Akwamu in Ghana. I am now a Ohene (King) with the title of Nana Akoto lll, Odopon 'The Tree With Strong Roots That Does Not Fear The Storm'. I was not expecting this as you can probably tell by the look on my face but I am truly proud to be a part of the Akwamu of Ghana."
Additionally, Michael Jai White revealed that his wife was also honored during the ceremony, stating that "My wife @iamgillianwhite is now a Ohemaa (Queen) Queen Mother. It’s fitting because we both had our DNA tests done and both of our African ancestry is primarily West African/Ghanaian."
In conclusion, he reflected on the honor by saying "I have come back home to the land my ancestors were taken from...and I will continue to represent and bring awareness to this beautiful land and rich culture.Awkabaa!🇬🇭🤴🏾👸🏽🙏🏾#yearofthereturn#AfricanKing#Ohene #Ghana #Africa#fullcirclefestival #michaeljaiwhite 😂🤴🏾👸🏽👑👑"
It should be noted that 2019 marks 400 years since the beginning of the transatlantic slave trade, while the purpose of the festival was to honor African heritage and legacy. Other notable celebrities that were in attendance were Idris Elba, Naomi Campbell, Ebro Darden, Nicole Ari Parker, and Anthony Anderson to name a few.
Source: instagram.com
