American actor Aundrey Flewellen crowned development chief in Ghana

The Atlanta-based actor was enstooled as Nana Kwame Foya I, Development Chief of the Ekoo Community in the Cape Coast area of Ghana’s Central Region.

The traditional ceremony, steeped in rich cultural symbolism, officially welcomed him into the folds of Ghanaian chieftaincy.

Speaking in an interview on The A-Z Show on Ameyaw TV, Nana Kwame Foya I recounted his unexpected journey from tourist to traditional leader.

- Advertisement -

“I came to Ghana in 2022 just to visit with a friend,” he said. “I loved the culture, the people, the energy… I felt at home right away. I never imagined I’d be back like this.”

His second coming, however, was nothing short of royal. “People were wearing T-shirts with my face, there were billboards, posters… It was overwhelming in the best way,” he said.

The turning point came during a casual conversation with Ghanaian filmmaker Dennis Bentil.

- Advertisement -

“I told him I wanted to get dual citizenship because I had fallen in love with Ghana. He told me his father is a chief in Cape Coast, and things just escalated from there” he said.

What began as a simple remark turned into a life-changing decision. Bentil connected him with his father, a traditional leader, and the idea of joining Ghana’s chieftaincy system was proposed.

“He said I could go through the regular citizenship process—or I could become a chief,” Flewellen laughed. “I said, ‘Of what?!’ But the more I learned, the more I saw the value,” Aundrey stated.

“We met with the Central Regional Minister, who explained that this role could lead to land ownership and dual citizenship. It was confirmation that I was on the right path,” he said.

What started as a visit has evolved into a cultural mission—one that blends the glitz of Hollywood with the traditions of Ghana.

“This is not just about a title,” he said. “It’s about building bridges between the diaspora and Africa, and making a real impact.”

Now bearing the title of Nana Kwame Foya I, the actor plans to use his influence and resources to support local development initiatives. His focus, he says, will be on education, creative arts, and youth empowerment.