The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has announced that the final funeral rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, will be held from Sunday, September 14, to Thursday, September 18, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
The rites, steeped in centuries-old tradition, will bring together chiefs, queen mothers, dignitaries, and mourners from across Ghana and abroad to pay homage to the late queen mother, who passed away on August 7, 2025, at the age of 98.
Palace officials said elaborate cultural displays, traditional rituals, and sacred ceremonies will mark the occasion, honouring a queen mother remembered for her compassion, philanthropy, and unwavering service to Asanteman.
Ban on public gatherings in Kumasi
In preparation for the historic event, the Asantehene has imposed a ban on all public gatherings — including funerals, outdoor events, and social activities — within Kumasi and its environs during the five-day funeral.
Authorities explained that the directive is to safeguard the sanctity of the rites, ensure security, and avoid disruptions as tens of thousands of mourners are expected to converge on the royal city.
The Palace has called on residents and visitors to fully cooperate, stressing that the occasion must be accorded the dignity and reverence befitting the Asantehemaa.
A sea of red and black at one-week observance
The grief of Asanteman was visibly on display during the one-week observance held at the Manhyia Palace.
Hundreds of mourners, draped in the symbolic red and black of mourning, thronged the palace to join the Asantehene in performing the rites.
The atmosphere was filled with solemnity and deep emotion, as chiefs, queen mothers, traditional priests and priestesses, clergy, and ordinary citizens came together in sorrow.
The palace courtyard resounded with dirges and traditional music — from Kete to Adoa and Nwomkro — while cultural troupes and dancers evoked the spirit of mourning through moving performances.
Political and national leaders join the mourning
The observance drew some of the country’s most prominent leaders.
Former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, and former Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia all joined the Asantehene to mourn the passing of the queen mother.
Vice-President Opoku-Agyemang led a high-powered government delegation that included the Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, Julius Debrah, and the Chief of Staff at the Vice President’s Office, Alex Segbefia.
She is expected to sign the Book of Condolence on behalf of the government and the people of Ghana.
Their presence, alongside traditional leaders and international dignitaries, underscored the stature of the late Asantehemaa and the national significance of her passing.
Life and legacy of Nana Konadu Yiadom III
Born in 1927 to the late Asantehemaa, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, and Opanin Kofi Fofie, Nana Konadu was deeply rooted in Asante traditions from an early age.
She ascended the stool in 2017 following her mother’s death, becoming a custodian of Asante culture and a powerful voice for women in chieftaincy.
Her reign, though only eight years, left a remarkable imprint. She championed maternal and child health, supported hospitals, and extended a helping hand to vulnerable families.
Her philanthropy and compassion won her admiration not only in Asanteman but across Ghana.
A nation in mourning
As preparations intensify for the final rites, Asanteman braces for a historic outpouring of grief and tradition.
The funeral will not only mark the departure of a revered queen mother but will also reaffirm the strength and continuity of Asante culture.
For the people of Kumasi and beyond, the days ahead will be a time of reflection, reverence, and remembrance — a final farewell to Nana Konadu Yiadom III, a mother of Asanteman whose memory will endure for generations.
