H. E. President John Dramani Mahama has paid a tribute to the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, describing her as a majestic pillar of strength whose wisdom and dignity inspired generations.
Despite barely eight years with the Queen Mother reign, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, said the Queen Mother’s reign had a lasting impact on the Ashanti Kingdom and the country as a whole as he delivered the President’s message on Thursday, September 18, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
“She was, without question, a towering source of inspiration — not only to the Manhyia Palace and Asanteman, but to Ghana as a whole,” Dr Amoakohene.
A Brief Life History:
Born in 1937, Nana Konadu Yiadom III ascended the throne of Asantehemaa in 2017 following the passing of her predecessor, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II. In private life she was known as Nana Ama Konadu before her enstoolment.
During her eight-year reign, she became a symbol of continuity and resilience, safeguarding Asante customs while embracing modernity. She was deeply respected for her motherly presence and her ability to offer calm yet firm guidance to the Asantehene and the royal household.
Her Impact on Women and Tradition
President Mahama’s tribute also emphasised the Asantehemaa’s role as a role model for women in Ghana.
“Her legacy will be remembered not only for her unwavering defence of Asante values and traditions, but also for her example of leadership to women across the country. She showed that women, too, can embody authority, wisdom and dignity at the highest level,” the tribute noted.
Beyond tradition, she was known for supporting girl-child education and community development initiatives in the Ashanti Region, efforts that won her admiration from both young and old.
Also, the funeral of Nana Konadu Yiadom III drew thousands of mourners, including chiefs, political leaders, dignitaries and ordinary citizens, all of whom gathered to honour her memory.
That notwithstanding, all the former presidents of the Republic of Ghana were present to mourn with Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
President Mahama’s words summed up the mood of the nation: “She was truly a mother to all, a custodian of peace, and an enduring inspiration to Ghana.”