Kumasi came to a standstill on Thursday, September 18, 2025, as thousands gathered at the Manhyia Palace to bid farewell to the late Asantehemaa, Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III.
President John Dramani Mahama, accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, joined a host of dignitaries at the solemn funeral rites. The ceremony drew the presence of former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Akufo-Addo, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong — a reflection of the national significance of the occasion.
The mourners included Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, ministers of state, members of parliament, chiefs, former legislators, business leaders, and citizens from across Ghana and the diaspora. Together, they paid their respects and consoled the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and the royal family.
In line with directives from traditional authorities, shops and markets across Kumasi were shuttered, bringing commercial activities to a halt to preserve the solemnity of the rites. Security was also heightened as thousands streamed into the city to participate in the historic observance.
Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, who passed away on August 7, 2025, at the age of 98, is revered for her pivotal role in preserving Asante traditions and fostering unity across Asanteman. Her final rites are being marked with elaborate ceremonies befitting her stature as Queen Mother of the Ashanti Kingdom.
Source – My News Ghana
