A city in reverence: Ashanti culture shines at Asantehemaa’s funeral
Kumasi, the heartbeat of the Ashanti Kingdom, witnessed an extraordinary display of tradition, reverence, and discipline during the just-ended funeral rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III.
For four poignant and solemn days, the capital of Asanteman was transformed into a stage where centuries-old heritage merged seamlessly with modern orderliness, offering the world a glimpse of Ghana’s cultural grandeur at its finest.
The Royal Mausoleum at Bremang became the final resting place of the revered queen mother, but it was the spirit of unity and discipline that captured the imagination of all. From the majestic cultural pageantry to the dignified conduct of citizens, the funeral was a testament to the enduring strength of Ashanti heritage.
Cultural grandeur and heritage on display
Every ritual, every drumbeat, and every dance conveyed the timeless identity of the Ashanti people. The kente-clad mourners, chiefs adorned in gold ornaments, and the rhythmic steps of traditional dancers created an atmosphere of solemn beauty. The symbolism of fire, libation, and ancestral homage reminded the world that culture is not static—it is living, breathing, and deeply rooted in communal memory.
The Asantehemaa’s farewell demonstrated the resilience, authenticity, dignity, regality, and symbolism of Ashanti tradition. It was not merely a funeral—it was an affirmation of cultural sovereignty and a celebration of a heritage that continues to inspire admiration across Africa and beyond.
Orderliness and discipline in the Kingdom
What struck many observers was not just the cultural richness but the exceptional discipline that characterized the entire programme. For four consecutive days, Kumasi residents obeyed directives from Manhyia Palace without hesitation. Businesses closed, traffic thinned, and the usual vibrancy of the city gave way to hushed reverence.
The result was an astonishing transformation: Kumasi became a ”ghost city”, its streets deserted, its people united in silence and respect. The obedience was not enforced—it was willingly embraced. Citizens understood the sanctity of the moment, proving that tradition, when deeply valued, commands loyalty beyond law.
Professionalism of Ghana’s security agencies
Behind the scenes of cultural spectacle was the silent efficiency of Ghana’s security services. From police to military, their presence was both firm and courteous.
They managed the throngs of mourners, secured ceremonial grounds, and ensured that the atmosphere remained safe and dignified.
Their conduct reflected professionalism, vigilance, composure, discipline, coordination, tact, diplomacy, dedication, and integrity.
Never once did the funeral descend into chaos; instead, it stood as a model of how culture and security can harmoniously coexist.
Kumasi: A City Transformed
The temporary silence of Kumasi was itself symbolic. Streets once bustling with commerce stood still. Market stalls were empty, taxis parked, and restaurants shut their doors.
The absence of noise and movement created a haunting yet beautiful stillness—an entire metropolis pausing to honor its queen mother.
It was in this rare stillness that the essence of unity was most visible. The tranquility, solemnity, reverence, humility, decorum, patience, civility, and cohesion of the people amplified the spiritual weight of the occasion. Kumasi had indeed become a ghost city—but one filled with collective memory, respect, and devotion.
A Legacy of Cultural Pride
The funeral of the late Asantehemaa will be remembered not only for its cultural symbolism but also for the lessons it left behind.
It showed that order and tradition are not mutually exclusive; that a people’s identity can be showcased with both majesty and modern discipline.
In an age where many cultures risk erosion, the Ashanti Kingdom has reaffirmed its pride, sovereignty, and cultural continuity.
The Asantehemaa’s final journey was a reminder that heritage, when preserved with reverence, remains the most enduring monument a people can leave for generations.
Kumasi became “ghost City”
The historic city of Kumasi witnessed an extraordinary moment of cultural reverence as the final burial rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, came to a solemn close.
The four-day state funeral, steeped in regal Ashanti traditions, was marked by grandeur, orderliness, and discipline, reflecting the profound respect the people hold for the cherished Queen Mother of the Ashanti Kingdom.
Thousands of mourners from Ghana and beyond converged at the Manhyia Palace to pay their last respects, turning the city into the focal point of Ghana’s cultural heritage.
In a rare display of unity and obedience, Kumasi transformed into a ghost city on the final night of the rites.
From 7:00 p.m., the bustling metropolis fell completely silent, with residents staying indoors to allow the burial rituals to proceed without disturbance.
Businesses shuttered, streets emptied, and the usually vibrant city centre stood in eerie stillness, underscoring the unmatched reverence accorded to the Asantehemaa. This unprecedented compliance reflected the deep cultural consciousness and discipline of the Ashanti people.
Throughout the ceremonies, the Ghana Police Service, Military, and other security agencies maintained impeccable professionalism.
Their visible yet discreet presence ensured safety, decorum, and seamless coordination, allowing both local and international guests to participate in the solemn activities without incident.
The flawless security arrangements were widely commended as a model of national duty and cultural sensitivity.
Beyond the rituals, the funeral highlighted the enduring legacy of the Ashanti Kingdom’s traditions. From the royal regalia on display to the colorful cultural performances, the event projected the Ashanti heritage onto the global stage.
The dignified farewell accorded to Nana Konadu Yiadom III not only honored her life of service but also reaffirmed the Ashanti Kingdom’s reputation as a custodian of Ghana’s cultural pride and identity.
Kumasi’s transformation into a ghost city, even if just for a night, will be remembered as a powerful symbol of loyalty and tradition.
The Ashanti Kingdom has once again shown the world that when culture, discipline, and dignity align, history is not only remembered—it is made.
By John Antwi Boasiako
News Editor of OTEC FM, Kumasi. Ghana
Gmail: johnboasiako79@gmail.com
