By John Antwi Boasiako

Copyright otecfmghana

The Manhyia Palace has clarified that selected essential service providers will be exempt from the one-day business closure in Kumasi on Thursday, September 18, as the Ashanti Kingdom observes the final burial rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.

In a statement signed by Acting Chief of Staff, Nana Effah Appenteng, the Palace announced that banks, pharmacies, fuel stations, restaurants, and transport operators would continue their operations. Utility providers such as the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Ghana Water Company, as well as emergency and health-related services—including the Fire Service, Ambulance Service, and Ghana Health Service—are also exempt from the directive.

“The exempted services are to ensure the city continues to function while the people of Asanteman pay their last respects,” Nana Effah Appenteng explained.

Schools and major markets in the Kumasi metropolis will, however, remain closed as thousands are expected to gather at the Manhyia Palace for the four-day Dɔte Yie rites, which will be led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

A Palace spokesperson emphasized the importance of the directive, saying:

“This is not only a moment of tradition but also one of deep cultural reflection. The exemptions are necessary so that essential services are not disrupted, even as the kingdom comes together to honor the memory of the late Queen Mother.”

The final rites for Nana Konadu Yiadom III, who served as the 14th Asantehemaa, have drawn mourners from across Ghana and the diaspora, with Manhyia expected to host thousands daily until the conclusion of the funeral activities.

Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com