By Abigail Kyeremah Owusu,Seli Baisie
Copyright gbcghanaonline
By Abigail Kyeremah Owusu
The final funeral rites for the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, who died on August 7, 2025, climax today, September 18, 2025, in Kumasi, where traditional authorities, mourners, and dignitaries are paying their last respects.
For four days, scores of mourners have thronged the Manhyia Palace to observe the doteyie. According to Asante diplomacy historian Mr. Y.A. Gyamfi, doteyie are the traditional burial rites of an Asantehemaa, usually observed between 40 and 80 days after death. The ceremonies, which often last about four days, are highly structured and deeply symbolic. Today marks the conclusion, with major restrictions placed on social and business activities in Kumasi.
The Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) correspondent for the Ashanti Region, Nicholas Osei-Wusu, explained on the GTV Breakfast Show that the restrictions form part of the reverence shown to the Asante Kingdom’s hierarchy. “The traditional leadership, together with the Regional Security Council, has directed that residents should stay at home unless they are offering essential services,” he said.
Essential services, including banks, health workers, pharmacies, security services, transport operators, and fuel stations, are permitted to operate. However, trading and other business activities, particularly in the city centre, are to remain closed for the day.
Mr. Osei-Wusu added that while limited movement is allowed during the day, the strictest restrictions will be enforced in the evening. “Anytime from 6 or 7pm, moving down to midnight, that is when the final rituals and the transition will take place,” he explained.
The Asantehemaa, the 14th to occupy the stool, is being accorded a dignified farewell in line with royal tradition. In Ashanti culture, doteyie is not unusual, but for royals, it can last three to four days, reflecting their status and legacy.
Authorities have urged residents to comply fully with the restrictions as the Ashanti Kingdom bids farewell to its late queen mother.
