The Manhyia Royal Family led by the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu Il has officially nominated Nana Ama Bonsu I as the new Asantehemaa (Queenmother), ushering in a new chapter in the traditional leadership of the Asante Kingdom.
In line with Asante custom and tradition, Nana Ama Bonsu I is scheduled to be formally unveiled and introduced to the Asanteman Council on Thursday, July 9, 2026, marking the official assumption of one of the kingdom’s highest traditional offices.
She succeeds Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, direct biological sister of the current Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II who inherited her Biological Mother the late Queen Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem who served as Asantehemaa until her passing in 2016.
The prestigious position has been vacant after the demise of the late Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III in 2025.
The nomination and unveiling ceremony, conducted in accordance with longstanding Asante customs, formally presented Nana Ama Bonsu I as the Queenmother-designate of the Asante Kingdom.
The office of the Asantehemaa is regarded as one of the most influential within the Asante monarchy, carrying significant cultural, traditional and advisory responsibilities.
Asante queenmothers play a pivotal role in preserving the kingdom’s customs and traditions, promoting social cohesion, and advising the Asantehene on issues relating to governance, succession and community development.
Like her predecessor, Nana Ama Bonsu I is expected to champion the welfare of women and children while contributing to conflict resolution, cultural preservation and the promotion of the values and heritage of the Asante Kingdom.
Her nomination fills one of the kingdom’s most important traditional leadership positions and is expected to further strengthen the governance structure of the Asante Kingdom while continuing the enduring legacy of the office of the Asantehemaa.
The ceremony was attended by traditional leaders, dignitaries and members of the Asante Kingdom, who witnessed the official presentation of Nana Ama Bonsu I and reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the customs, traditions and institutions of Asanteman.
By Benjamin Aidoo
