In the heart of Asanteman, where culture meets history and tradition dances with modernity, one man has risen to capture the spirit of the kingdom through the power of his lens. His name is Elijah Donkor, but across Ghana and beyond, he is celebrated simply as Kofi Ghana,the man whose photographs tell the royal story of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, in ways words often cannot.
For many who follow the activities of the Manhyia Palace, Kofi Ghana’s name has become familiar. His camera doesn’t just take pictures, it preserves moments that speak, breathe, and inspire. Whether it’s Otumfuo sitting in state, leading a durbar, or blessing his people, Kofi Ghana’s frames are filled with emotion, dignity, and an unspoken reverence for the golden stool and the heritage it represents.
A Life Through the Lens of Culture
Born as Elijah Donkor, Kofi Ghana began his career with a deep love for storytelling and a passion for visual documentation. Today, he stands out as a broadcast journalist and photojournalist, bridging the gap between news and art. His work, though mostly centered in the Ashanti Region, resonates across Ghana as a visual testimony of leadership, culture, and identity.
He describes his mission as “capturing the essence of Asanteman.” To him, photography isn’t just about pressing a shutter; it’s about documenting legacy. His photographs have portrayed not only the Asantehene but also the late Asantehemaa and the many traditional ceremonies that form the heartbeat of the Ashanti Kingdom. Through his eyes, viewers experience the weight of heritage and the beauty of tradition preserved in time.
The Manhyia Connection
Kofi Ghana’s connection with the Manhyia Palace is more than professional — it’s symbolic. Working close to the royal court gives him a privileged view of events that the average eye rarely sees. From sacred moments of silence to public celebrations filled with gold regalia and kente, his photography tells the story of power wrapped in humility, of royalty grounded in service.
His viral images of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, especially during solemn traditional ceremonies, have drawn admiration across social media and traditional media platforms. Each shot reflects more than an image; it reveals a story, a prayer, and a pride that lives in every true son and daughter of Asanteman.
Recognition and the Floodlight Honor
Kofi Ghana’s dedication to his craft was crowned with glory when he won the “Event Photographer of the Year 2025 (National)” at the Floodlight Media Excellence Awards (FMEA). It was a dream come true a moment he described as “a once distant dream that now feels real.”
The recognition didn’t just celebrate his personal success; it reaffirmed the importance of cultural storytelling in a fast-changing media landscape. His award was also a victory for Asanteman, proof that artistry rooted in culture can stand tall on the national stage.
Through His Lens, the World Sees Asanteman
For Kofi Ghana, photography is both a calling and a responsibility. He sees himself as a bridge between tradition and modernity — ensuring that generations to come can see, feel, and remember the heritage that defines the Ashanti Kingdom.
His images have become part of the collective memory of a people proud of their roots. They have appeared on royal pages, in news outlets, and across digital platforms — often shared with admiration and gratitude for their authenticity and elegance.
Though much of his early life and training remain private, what is clear is his devotion to his work, his humility, and his passion for excellence. In every frame, he brings not only light and focus but also reverence and storytelling.
A Photographer, a Custodian, a Visionary
Kofi Ghana represents more than photography — he represents the soul of cultural preservation. His lens doesn’t chase fame; it guards history. His success reminds young creatives that one can build greatness by celebrating where they come from.
In a world filled with fleeting trends, Kofi Ghana’s work stands timeless — a living gallery of Ghanaian royalty, artistry, and pride. And as the golden kingdom continues to write its story, his camera will remain one of its most trusted pens.
Kyidom Online celebrates Kofi Ghana — the royal storyteller, the award-winning photographer, and a son of Asanteman whose vision has become our mirror of pride.
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