Bechem: Historic town positioned as prime investment hub, new chief declares

The newly enstooled Omanhene of Bechem, Nana Asiwobour Osei Bonsu III, has officially proclaimed the ancient town’s potential as a strategic investment hub, leveraging its unique geographical position at the crossroads of three regions.

During his outdooring ceremony in Bechem, Nana Asiwobour highlighted the town’s enviable location bordering the Ashanti, Bono, and Bono East regions as a prime catalyst for economic transformation.

“In the Ahafo Region, Bechem is strategically positioned between three important regions: Ashanti, Bono and Bono East, giving the town enormous potential to become a centre of commerce, agriculture, education and investment,” the chief stated.

He extended a direct call to investors, entrepreneurs, and the diaspora community, emphasizing the area’s fertile lands and the industrious nature of its people as key assets ready for development.

A Legacy Forged in Triumph

The Bechem Traditional Area, comprising Bechem, Dwomo, Terchire, and Tanoso—collectively known as “Atanofo Akrotuonnan”—is bound by a rich historical tapestry dating back centuries.

Historical accounts reveal that the town’s name originated from a pivotal moment following a war over Dormaa. It is said that Nana Osei Tutu I and his victorious warriors gathered at Abekyease to divide their spoils, declaring, “Yebekye mu wo ha” (We shall divide our booty here), a phrase that evolved into the name Bechem.

The area’s identity is further distinguished by the “Asiwobour” stool. According to historical records obtained during the ceremony, the third Bechem Chief, Nana Asiwobour Asimpa Apraku, demonstrated remarkable courage by traveling to Kumasi to petition Nana Osei Tutu I.

His request was to replace annual human sacrifices for a local deity with the sacrifice of rams. The Asantehene granted the request and bestowed the title “Asiwobour” in recognition of the chief’s bravery and foresight in preserving human life for the community’s growth.

The Oath of the State

The enduring legacy of leadership and sacrifice is encapsulated in the Bechem state oath, “Meka Breme ne Mpete.” The oath serves as a solemn remembrance of a past chief who succumbed to a disease known as “Mpete” while residing in Breme, a village he founded for his wife, Nana Akyiaa Tafo.

As Nana Asiwobour Osei Bonsu III begins his reign, he positions Bechem not only as a keeper of these deep-rooted traditions but also as a promising gateway poised for growth, where heritage meets modern opportunity.