Kumasi, the Ashanti Region’s capital, has come to a standstill as the city bids a final farewell to Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, the revered Asantehemaa, in a traditional ceremony marked by reverence and solemnity.
The city fell silent today, September 18, 2025, as the queen mother’s final burial rites took place, adhering to Ashanti customs that dictate complete stillness and respect during this sacred moment.
Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, who passed away on August 7, 2025, at the age of 98, was remembered as a wise and devoted leader who strengthened the cultural heritage of the Ashanti Kingdom. Her funeral rites, which began on September 14, drew thousands of mourners, including prominent Ghanaian leaders such as 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.
As the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, led the mourning procession, the city of Kumasi showed its respect by shutting down major roads and businesses, bringing normal activities to a halt. The Combine Traders Association and other groups paid their respects, acknowledging the late queen mother’s immense contributions to the unity and growth of the Ashanti Kingdom ¹.
The burial service included a memorial service at Dwabrem, attended by President John Dramani Mahama and other dignitaries. According to Ashanti customs, residents were directed to remain indoors during the late queen mother’s final journey to the royal mausoleum at Breman, ensuring a solemn and uninterrupted procession.
