The Ashanti Kingdom has been plunged into deep mourning following the passing of Nana Konadu Yiadom III, the revered Asantehemaa, whose death was formally announced to the Asanteman Council on August 11, 2025. She passed away peacefully at her Manhyia Palace residence on August 7, bringing an end to an eight-year reign marked by compassion, cultural preservation, and community service.
In a gesture to allow the public to share in the mourning process, a book of condolences has been placed at her official residence. Mourners from across Ghana and beyond are visiting to pen heartfelt messages, offer comfort to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, and extend solidarity to the royal family and the people of Asanteman. Many are also using the opportunity to recall personal encounters and moments of inspiration drawn from the late Queen Mother’s life.
The Manhyia Palace has confirmed that a one-week observation will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the Palace grounds. The ceremony is expected to draw traditional leaders, government officials, foreign dignitaries, and thousands of citizens wishing to pay their respects.
Born in 1927 at the Benyaade Shrine in Meredane, Kwadaso, Nana Konadu Yiadom III was the first daughter of the late Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II and Opanin Kofi Fofie. She was raised by her aunt in Ashanti New Town, Kumasi, where she was immersed in the customs, discipline, and cultural heritage of her people.
During her youth, she participated in traditional puberty rites and later married Opanin Kwame Boateng, a skilled blacksmith from Aduman. Her reputation for humility, fairness, and compassion earned her deep admiration across the Kingdom.
In the mid-1990s, a prophecy foretold her eventual rise to the Nyarko Kusiamoah and Konadu Yiadom Stool — a destiny fulfilled on February 6, 2017, when she was enstooled as the fourteenth Asantehemaa.
Her reign was distinguished by initiatives to improve maternal healthcare, promote breastfeeding, support hospitals, and foster peace and unity throughout Asanteman. She will be remembered not only as a custodian of Ashanti tradition but also as a motherly figure whose leadership touched countless lives.
