Otumfuo Imposes Funeral Ban in Ashanti Region Ahead of Asantehemaa’s Final Rites

KUMASI, Ghana (August 25, 2025) - The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has announced a prohibition on all funerals within the Ashanti Kingdom from September 1 through September 18, 2025, to allow for solemn preparation and observance of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III’s, final burial rites.

The Asantehene delivered the directive on August 21 during the one-week observance commemorating the Queen Mother’s passing on August 7 at age 98. The ban will encompass all funeral ceremonies, requiring residents to forgo customary burial gatherings during the specified period.

Major rituals are slated to commence on Sunday, September 14, and conclude on Thursday, September 18, culminating in the evening internment of the Asantehemaa. On the day of burial, the Asantehene has urged all residents to remain indoors, and mandated the closure of shops and markets throughout Kumasi and surrounding districts.

Prominent Ghanaian dignitaries-including former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, and former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia-converged at Manhyia Palace to join Otumfuo in mourning the late Queen Mother. Their attendance underscores the national significance of the traditional ceremonies.

Nana Konadu Yiadom III, born in 1927 to the 13th Asantehemaa, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem III (reigned 1977-2016), and Opanin Kofi Foffie of Besease, ascended as the 14th Queen of Asante. Married early in life to blacksmith Opanin Kwame Boateng of Aduman, she devoted decades to royal duties until her passing earlier this month.

This unprecedented funeral moratorium reflects the Ashanti Kingdom’s commitment to preserving the dignity and sanctity of the Asantehemaa’s final rites, ensuring undisturbed traditional proceedings during this pivotal period.