Otumfuo Osei Tutu II seeks renewal of defunct Asante Kotoko, MTN sponsorship deal

The Life Patron of the Asante Kotoko Sporting Club, His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has made a passionate plea for the renewal of the defunct partnership between his club and MTN, Ghana’s leading telecommunication company.

The plea was made during a courtesy visit by the new Chief Executive Officer of MTN, Stephen Blewett, at the Manhyia Palace on June 26, 2024.

During the meeting, Mr. Blewett expressed his desire to enhance the relationship between the Palace, the Kingdom, and MTN, highlighting the importance of maintaining the existing partnership.

“I want us to continue the relationship that exists between Your Majesty, the Kingdom, the people and MTN. We have a long relationship and we keep that relationship close to our heart. It’s important to us and we want to continue holding to that relationship.”

In response, Otumfuo called for the reinstatement of the sponsorship deal, which had been dormant since 2020.

“MTN is Manhyia’s very good friend and the sponsorship I think you have to look at it…Golf and Kotoko. Look at those two for me, especially Kotoko and then the family can then grow.”

The sponsorship agreement between MTN and Asante Kotoko was initially established between 2001 and 2008, with MTN committing GH¢1,050,000 in cash and other forms of support. However, the partnership was severed in 2020 due to unforeseen circumstances, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

Notably, Asante Kotoko’s financial obligations following the dissolution of its Board in 2023 have been single-handedly borne by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

The Management of MTN has assured His Majesty that they will review their sponsorship agreement to consider reinstating their support for the club.