President John Dramani Mahama has paid special tribute to the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, describing her as a source of inspiration and a majestic pillar of strength for both the Asante Kingdom and Ghana.
This is contained in a tribute delivered by Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, on behalf of the President at the final funeral rites on September 18., 2025.
Dr Amoakehene stated that the Queen Mother’s counsel had touched generations and left an enduring mark on the nation.
“She was, without a doubt, a majestic pillar of strength and inspiration not only to the Manhyia Palace and the Asanteman, but to the entire nation,” Dr Amoakohene read.
The tribute praised Nana Konadu Yiadom III’s eight-year reign for upholding Asante values, preserving tradition, and promoting peace and dignity.
“Throughout her 8-year reign, she embodied the true essence of Asante values, maintaining tradition with steadfast dedication and projecting an image of dignity and peace. Her wise counsel and astute guidance were invaluable. She was truly an inspiration and a worthy role model, particularly for the women of Asanteman and Ghana at large,” the tribute read.
The late Asantehemaa, sister of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is being laid to rest with elaborate rites in Kumasi, drawing dignitaries, chiefs, political leaders and mourners from across the country.
Earlier in the day, schools, and businesses were shut down in observance of the final burial rites, following a directive from the Manhyia Palace.
The closures mark the culmination of the four-day Dote Yie (traditional burial rites), which began on Monday, September 14, 2025, and have drawn tens of thousands of mourners, including high-ranking dignitaries from Ghana and beyond.
As part of the commemoration, a curfew was imposed for Thursday night, September 18,2025, requiring residents to remain indoors as the Asantehemaa’s remains are moved to the Royal mausoleum at Breman for burial.
Throughout the week, the funeral has been characterised by elaborate Asante culture and solemn rituals.
The funeral rites saw delegations from religious bodies, political parties, schools, NGOs, and corporate organisations paying tribute at the Manhyia Palace.
The Asantehemaa would be transported to Bantama Mausoleum (Ban mu), then to Breman Mausoleum for burial.
Nana Konadu Yiadom III, who was 98, passed away on August 7, 2025.
