Kofi Karikari

Kofi Karikari
Golden trophy head belonging to the treasury of Kofi Karikari
Asantehene of Asanteman
Reign28 May 1867 – 26 October 1874 (1867-05-28 1874-10-26)
PredecessorKwaku Dua Panin
SuccessorMensa Bonsu
BornUnknown date, c.1837
Kumasi, Ashanti Empire
DiedUnknown date, c.1884 (aged 47)
Kumasi, Ashanti Empire
Names
Otumfuo Nana Kofi Karikari
MotherAfua Kobi

Kofi Karikari (c.1837c.1884) was the tenth King of the Ashanti Empire, and grandnephew of Kwaku Dua I, whose sudden death in April 1867 sparked internal strife about the succession. Kofi Karikari was chosen by an electoral majority, reigning from 28 May 1867 until his forced abdication on 26 October 1874. Karikari was the son of Afua Kobi.

A notable achievement of Karikari was the intentional neglect of the armed forces, a step taken to avoid the escalation of war. A golden trophy head, owned by Karikari can be found at the Wallace Collection in London, acquired by Sir Richard Wallace in May 1874 for £500.

Kofi had a great-great granddaughter, Beryl Karikari who had two sons, Korieh, and Akwasi Duodu.