Kumasi: The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has officially informed the Asanteman Traditional Council of the death of the Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III. Nana Konadu Yiadom died on Thursday, August 7, 2025, after a short illness. Otumfuo Osei Tutu, addressing the Asanteman Traditional Council in Kumasi on Monday, announced that the one-week rite would be held on August 21 at the Manhyia Palace.
According to Ghana News Agency, Nana Konadu Yiadom III was born in 1927 to the late Asantehemaa, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, and Opanin Kofi Fofie. Despite not receiving formal education, she was trained in the rich customs, values, and protocols of the Ashanti people, preparing her for a future leadership role. She became the Asantehemaa in 2017 after her mother's passing, taking on the responsibility of guiding the royal lineage and preserving the cultural heritage of the Golden Stool.
For over eight years, Nana Konadu Yiadom III served with dedication, supporting initiatives in maternal and child health, advocating breastfeeding, and providing resources to hospitals such as the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government Hospital. Her contributions uplifted many and embodied the essence of Ashanti womanhood.
The Asantehemaa was born Nana Ama Konadu and was affectionately known as Nana Panin. Her early life involved a rigorous informal education and traditional upbringing. Prophecies in the mid-1990s foretold her future role as Queen of Asante, which she fulfilled with integrity and fairness.
She was celebrated for her generosity and fairness in resolving disputes, which earned her recognition within the community. Her 5th anniversary as Asantehemaa marked a significant contribution to the Mother-Baby Unit of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, highlighting her commitment to maternal and child welfare.
Nana Konadu Yiadom III's reign saw the initiation of campaigns to promote breastfeeding, underscoring her lasting impact on health and wellbeing in her community. Her legacy as a custodian of tradition and peacemaker will be remembered by many.
