Frank Kwabena Owusu, popularly known in the creative space as Franky5, has been enstooled as the Guantuahene of Abiriw-Akuapem in the Eastern Region of Ghana.
The ceremony, held at the Abiriw Palace, attracted hundreds of well-wishers, dignitaries, family members and residents who came to witness the historic occasion.
The enstoolment was conducted under the auspices of Nana Kwame Henaku II, Omanhene of the Abiriw Traditional Area, together with the elders and kingmakers of the Abiriw Traditional Council.
His installation as Nana Kwabena Owusu I, Guantuahene of Abiriw, is seen as recognition of his dedication to culture, media and youth development, and his efforts in promoting the Akuapem identity both locally and abroad.
Before his enstoolment, Franky5 had earned a reputation as a respected media personality, cultural advocate and creative entrepreneur. Through his programmes on Max TV and other media platforms, he has promoted Ghanaian music, culture and the creative arts, highlighting both emerging and established talents and shaping national conversations around culture, morality and youth empowerment.
A proud son of Abiriw, Franky5 has also supported numerous cultural initiatives in the Akuapem area, particularly in organising festivals, heritage events and youth-focused projects aimed at preserving traditional values. His commitment to uniting the people of Abiriw and his advocacy for responsible cultural representation made him an ideal choice for the role, according to Nana Kwame Henaku II and his elders.
After his installation, Nana Kwabena Owusu I expressed gratitude to the Omanhene, elders and people of Abiriw for the confidence reposed in him. He pledged to serve with humility, integrity and dedication, working with the traditional council to promote unity, development and cultural pride.
“This is not just an honour but a call to serve. I believe that the youth have a critical role to play in sustaining our traditions while embracing modernity. I will do my best to bridge that gap and bring progressive ideas that benefit Abiriw and the larger Akuapem State,” he said.
The ceremony featured rich traditional drumming, dancing and colourful displays of regal attire that reflected the splendour of Akuapem culture. Representatives from various traditional areas, the clergy, media colleagues and members of the creative arts community were present to celebrate the new chief.
Max TV, where Franky5 has been a prominent presenter, provided extensive coverage, while community elders and cultural groups offered blessings and goodwill messages.
With his enstoolment, Nana Kwabena Owusu I joins the council of elders of Abiriw, where he is expected to bring his experience and youthful energy to the traditional area’s social and developmental agenda.
The occasion reaffirmed Abiriw’s commitment to nurturing leaders who combine traditional wisdom with modern innovation, qualities that define the new Guantuahene.
The coronation and swearing-in ceremony are scheduled for 22nd December 2025 as part of the activities marking the upcoming Abiriw Ohum (Eba) Festival from 21 to 28 December.