A Royal Bridge Across Oceans: The King of Shama Visits South Molton

The historic market town of South Molton recently swapped its quiet North Devon charm for the vibrant gold and pageantry of West African royalty. In a rare and significant visit, His Royal Majesty Osagyefo Kwaw Fraiku IV, the Paramount Chief of the Shama District in Ghana, arrived to breathe new life into a decade-old bond.For the residents of South Molton, it was more than just a diplomatic meeting; it was the rekindling of a “Sister City” initiative that had remained largely quiet for over a decade.

A Long-Awaited Reunion

The relationship between the two communities began in 2010, but momentum slowed as the Shama District underwent a 13-year period without a seated king. Following his enstoolment in February, Osagyefo Kwaw Fraiku IV made it a priority to travel to the UK to personally revitalize the partnership.

Accompanied by fellow Ghanaian Francis Mensah, the King stayed as a guest of South Molton Councillor David Worden. This personal touch set the tone for the visit—one defined by friendship rather than just formality.

From the Pannier Market to the Parish ChurchDuring his stay, the King immersed himself in the local culture, touring the town’s most iconic landmarks. The royal itinerary included:• The Pannier Market: Where the King experienced the heart of North Devon commerce.• South Molton Parish Church: A moment of reflection and shared history with local leaders.•

Community Hubs: Visits to the South Molton Library, the local museum, and the Smart Swim Centre.In a lighthearted moment that captured the spirit of the trip, the King was even spotted testing out a different kind of “throne”—a piece of local furniture—to the delight of his hosts.A Vision for the FutureThe visit culminated in a powerful address to the South Molton Town Council, by invitation of Mayor Councillor Paul Henderson.

Dressed in traditional regalia, the King spoke of Shama as the “gateway to western Ghana,” a region of 150,000 people looking toward a future of sustainable progress.”I seized this opportunity to visit South Molton to discuss our partnership and to revitalise our collaboration for the mutual benefit of both our communities,” the King told the council.

He took a moment to offer a heartfelt “God bless you” to those who laid the groundwork for this bond, specifically mentioning Councillors David Worden, Stephen Lock, and Christian Lock, as well as Dr. Kathrine Govier, a South Molton physician who volunteered at Shama Hospital in 2010.

Strengthening the Sister City BondAs the President of the Shama Traditional Council, the King emphasized that his office provides the stability needed for long-term goals. His vision for the twinning relationship focuses on:• Environmental Stewardship: Protecting natural resources through shared knowledge.• Economic Progress: Fostering activities that benefit both Shama and South Molton.• Cultural Exchange: Preserving heritage while embracing modern unity.

The King’s visit serves as a reminder that despite the thousands of miles and different cultures, the goals of community, stability, and progress remain universal. As he returned to Ghana, he left behind a town that is no longer just a dot on a map to him, but a true sister city.