Singer and songwriter, Kofi Kinaata, has mentioned that no global accolade, not even a Grammy recognition, compares to the acknowledgment he received from the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
He has labelled it the highest honour of his career.
Kofi Kinaata was honoured with the ‘Youth in Entertainment Award’ during the Otumfuo Millennium Excellence Awards on May 9, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
Otumfuo honours Kofi Kinaata with ‘Youth in Entertainment Award’ at Millennium Excellence Awards
The award, an initiative of the Manhyia Palace, celebrates individuals whose work has made a huge contribution to national development.
Reacting to this in an interview on Angel FM, Kofi Kinaata explained why the recognition means more to him than even the Grammys.
He noted that while the Grammy Awards primarily reward musicians, the Otumfuo Millennium Excellence Award is rare and uniquely tied to societal impact.
“Grammy awards are primarily given to musicians, but the award Otumfuo bestowed is unique and stands out. You could sing your entire life and still not receive it, which I consider more prestigious than the Grammys,” Kinaata said.
The musician also talked about how the honour has opened new opportunities for him.
During a speech, Otumfuo referenced Kinaata’s hit song Susuka, describing it as a piece “full of wisdom” at the General Conference of the Ghana Bar Association in September 2024.
‘Sometimes, listen to the wisdom of Kofi Kinaata’ – Otumfuo tells Ghanaians
At that time, Kofi Kinaata mentioned that that particular honour expanded his influence.
“My followers have grown, and I now perform at many classic shows. For some specific events, I wouldn’t have been considered before, but now I am booked for such occasions,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Kinaata’s recognition at the Otumfuo Millennium Excellence Award places him among an esteemed group of personalities who were honoured for their achievements and impact on society.
Other recipients included, Dr Osei Kwame Despite, CEO of Despite Group of Companies, Dr Ernest Ofori Sarpong, CEO of Special Ice Water, and Dr Nick Danso, CEO of Ghana Link Network Services.
I will always choose Otumfour’s Award over Grammy Awards- Kofi KInaata. 🎥 via @AngelFmKumasi #ABNGhana #angelrockmixture #angelcola pic.twitter.com/OvoRmVIwCG
— Don Summer (@donsummerone) September 29, 2025
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