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The Ashanti Kingdom has been plunged into mourning following the official announcement of the death of the Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III. The disclosure was made by His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on Monday morning during a meeting with the Asanteman Council at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
According to the Asantehene, he was formally informed of the queen mother’s passing earlier in the day by the Gyaase Division. Nana Konadu Yiadom III, who served as the 14th Queen Mother of the Ashanti Kingdom, died on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the age of 98. She ascended to the stool in 2017, succeeding her mother, the late Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II.
Otumfuo announced that the one-week observation will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace. He urged the people of Asanteman to take note of all traditional activities leading to the funeral rites and announced the suspension of all official palace activities until after the observance.
The Asantehene also extended condolences to the Government of Ghana and the families affected by last week’s tragic helicopter crash in the Adansi area, which claimed the lives of two ministers of state and other officials.
Speaking to the media, palace historian Nana Sarfo Kantanka described the late Asantehemaa as “a custodian of tradition, unity, and cultural dignity,” noting her significant role in advising the Asantehene and maintaining harmony within the royal court and the wider Asante Kingdom.
Public mourning is expected to draw thousands from across Ghana and the diaspora, with dignitaries, chiefs, and queen mothers expected to pay their respects. Funeral arrangements will be communicated after the one-week observance in line with Asante customary practices.
Nana Konadu Yiadom III leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to Asanteman’s cultural heritage.
