The UK is loaning some of Ghana’s “crown jewels” back home, 150 years after looting them from the court of the Asante king. The items to be loaned, most of which were taken during 19th-Century wars between the British and the Asante, include a sword of state and gold badges worn by officials charged with cleansing the soul of the king. The Asante gold artefacts are the ultimate symbol of the Asante royal government and are believed to be invested with the spirits of former Asante kings. A special adviser to Ghana’s culture minister told the BBC, “They’re not just objects, they have spiritual importance as well. They are part of the soul of the nation. It’s pieces of ourselves returning.” Sources: @bbc @bbcafrica, @dw_the77percent