THE final burial rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, reached its solemn conclusion yesterday at the Royal Mausoleum in Bremang.
The elaborate funeral proceedings, which commenced on Sunday, September 14, followed strictly centuries-old Asante custom, culminating in what promised to be one of the most significant royal burials in recent memory.
The week-long observances honoured both the traditional protocols of the Asante Kingdom and the remarkable legacy of a queen mother who dedicated her life to cultural preservation.
An early morning visit by The Ghanaian Times to the historic Bremang Royal Mausoleum revealed meticulous preparations befitting a royal of her stature.
The sacred burial ground has been transformed into a tableau of traditional mourning, with flowing black and red cloths—the time-honoured symbols of grief and reverence in Asante culture—draped throughout the premises.
These colours serve as a visual representation of the collective sorrow that has enveloped the entire Asanteman.
The residents of Bremang, keenly aware of the historical significance of the moment, have demonstrated unwavering respect for the strict directives issued by the Manhyia Palace, remaining indoors to allow the sacred ceremonies to proceed without interruption.
The impact of this momentous occasion extended far beyond the burial grounds.
Kumasi, the cultural heart of the Asanteman, has come to an unprecedented halt, with the Central Business District wearing an unusually somber demeanor.
The city’s normally bustling commercial arteries have fallen silent in a remarkable display of collective reverence.
In complete adherence to the Manhyia Palace’s decree, all commercial activities ceased across the metropolis.
Markets that typically teem with vendors and shoppers stood empty, schools suspended classes, offices closed their doors, and the usually vibrant public transportation system grounded to a halt.
Even the iconic Kumasi Central Market and the busy commercial hub of Adum presented an eerily quiet landscape, with major thoroughfares lying deserted as residents honoured the memory of their beloved queen mother through respectful silence.
The sacred burial ceremony was scheduled to take place later in the evening at the Bremang Royal Mausoleum, marking the final chapter in the earthly journey of a revered royal figure.
In accordance with traditional protocols surrounding such significant royal burials, the Manhyia Palace issued strict guidelines requiring all residents to remain indoors during the critical period between 7:00 p.m. today and 4:00 a.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025.
The directive reflected the sacred nature of royal burial rites in Asante tradition, where certain ceremonies are conducted in solitude and reverence, away from public view.
Nana Konadu Yiadom ascended to the prestigious position of 14th Asantehemaa in 2017 and brought eight years of distinguished service to the role until her peaceful transition at the remarkable age of 98.
Her tenure was characterised by an unwavering commitment to preserving her Asante cultural heritage, maintaining the dignity of traditional institutions, and serving as a maternal figure to the entire kingdom.
As the biological sister of the current Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, she held a uniquely important position within the royal hierarchy, serving not only as queen mother but as a trusted advisor and cultural guardian.
Her deep understanding of Asante customs and her dedication to their preservation earned her the respect and admiration of subjects across the kingdom and beyond.
Nana Konadu Yiadom III was no ordinary royal.
Born in 1927 at the sacred Benyaade Shrine in Merdan, Kwadaso, Nana Ama Konadu was the daughter of the 13th Asantehemaa, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, who reigned from 1977 to 2016, and Opanin Kofi Fofie, a respected carpenter from Besease near Atimatim.
She ascended the stool on February 6, 2016 and checked out on August 7, 2025.
Yesterday’s event, the last burial rites at the Manhyia Palace saw the presence of high profile personalities mourn with the Asantehene.
They included President John Dramani Mahama, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and wife Samira; Mr Kennedy Ohene Agyapong and wife; and Mr Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen.
FROM KINGSLEY E.HOPE, KUMASI
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