The Manhyia Palace has announced that all schools, shops, banks, markets, and other public and commercial spaces in Kumasi will remain closed on Thursday, September 18, 2025.
This is to allow for the final funeral rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.
As part of the cultural observance, all social and commercial activities across the Kumasi Metropolis and surrounding areas will come to a halt.
Residents are also expected to observe an indoor curfew beginning at 7 p.m. on the final day. The curfew will end at 4 a.m. on Friday, September 19.
The royal burial rites, led by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will draw thousands of mourners to the Ashanti Region.
Rituals began on Sunday, September 14, and will conclude with a sacred procession on the night of September 18.
The body of the late Queen Mother will be moved from the Dwaberem at Manhyia Palace to the Bantama Royal Mausoleum for traditional rites and then to the Breman Royal Mausoleum for burial.
Chairman of the funeral planning committee, Nana Effah Apenteng, who also serves as the Paramount Chief of Bompata, called on all residents to respect the tradition by observing the closure and curfew.
“This is a moment of great cultural importance. We urge everyone to cooperate fully so that we can honor the Asantehemaa’s legacy with dignity and peace,” he said.
The late Nana Konadu Yiadom III was 98 years old. She served as the Asantehemaa from 2017 until her passing in 2025, and is remembered for her grace, wisdom, and service to the Asante Kingdom.
