The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, on Sunday, August 17, 2025, celebrated the 6th Akwasidae festival, marked in black and brown attire without the usual display of ornaments, in honour of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.
The event, traditionally referred to as Akwasidae Tuntum or Kuntunkuni Dae, symbolized the kingdom’s collective mourning following the demise of the Queen Mother.
The customs associated with Kuntunkuni Dae are significant.
Wearing of black or dark cloth to signify the mourning state of the Asante Kingdom.
There was also a careful selection of mourning songs which reflects the grieving state of the Kingdom.
The Kuntunkuni Dae provides a time for remembrance for the departed Queen Of Asante.
Chiefs, queen mothers, and subjects of the Asante Kingdom arrived at the Manhyia Palace clad in black and brown cloths, refraining from the customary gold adornments that often highlight the grandeur of the festival.
The Akwasidae festival, which occurs every 40 days in line with the Akan calendar, coincided with the death of the Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, who passed away early this month.
The one week observance, a significant step in Akan funeral rites, will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025.
The celebration of Kuntunkuni Dae served as a reminder of the Queen Mother’s pivotal role in the Asante traditional hierarchy.
Many dignitaries were at the palace to mourn with the King.
They included leaders of both NPP and NDC, religious leaders, security agencies and the general public.
People in the Kingdom have been urged to Remember to wear either black or brown clothes.
By Benjamin Aidoo
