The Asante Kingdom has been plunged into mourning following the passing of its revered Queen Mother, Nana Konadu Yiadom III. The announcement was made by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during an emergency Asanteman Council meeting held at the Manhyia Palace on Monday, August 11, 2025.
Nana Konadu Yiadom III, aged 91, died in the early hours of Thursday, August 7, 2025, after reigning for eight years as the 14th Asantehemaa. She was the biological sister of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and succeeded their mother, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, who served as Asantehemaa from 1977 to 2016.
Born Nana Ama Konadu in 1927 at the Benyaade Shrine in Kwadaso, Kumasi, she was raised in Ashanti New Town by her aunt Nana Afia Konadu. Though she did not receive formal education, she was deeply schooled in Asante traditions and cultural wisdom. Her life was marked by humility, fairness, and a strong commitment to justice and philanthropy.
Throughout her reign, Nana Konadu Yiadom III played a pivotal role in preserving the cultural heritage of Asanteman. She was known for her impartial dispute resolution, charitable works, and advocacy for maternal health. Her contributions included generous donations to the Mother-Baby Unit and pediatric wards at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.
The one-week observation of her passing is scheduled for Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace, in accordance with Asante tradition.
Nana Konadu Yiadom III joins a distinguished lineage of Asante queen mothers, including
Nana Nyarko Kusiamoa (1695–1722)
Nana Nkatia Abamo (1722–1740)
Nana Akua Afriyie (1740–1768)
Nana Konadu Yiadom I (1768–1809)
Nana Akosua Adoma (1809–1819)
Nana Ama Serwaa (1819–1828)
Nana Yaa Dufie (1828–1836)
Nana Afua Sarpon (1836–1857)
Nana Afua Kobi I (1857–1884)
Nana Yaa Akyaa (1884–1917)
Nana Konadu Yiadom II (1917–1945)
Nana Ama Serwaa Nyarko (1945–1977)
Nana Afua Serwaa Kobi Ampem II (1977–2016)
Nana Konadu Yiadom III (2017–2025)
Her death marks the end of an era and leaves a profound void in the heart of Asanteman. Tributes continue to pour in from across the country, celebrating her legacy of wisdom, compassion, and cultural stewardship.
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