Kumasi, Ghana’s second-largest city, will come to a standstill on Thursday, September 18, 2025, as the Asante Kingdom lays its revered queen mother, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, to rest with full traditional honours.

The Manhyia Palace has ordered the closure of all schools, banks, shops, markets, and commercial centres across the Kumasi Metropolis on the final day of the funeral rites.

The late Asantehemaa, who served from 2017 until her passing earlier this year at the age of 98, is remembered as a pillar of wisdom and continuity in the Asante Kingdom.

The burial rites, which began on September 14, will culminate in a grand procession on September 18.

Thousands of mourners, alongside Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, are expected to attend, underscoring the cultural and historical significance of the moment.

Nana Effah Apenteng, Paramount Chief of the Bompata Traditional Council and Chairman of the funeral planning committee, said the shutdown is designed to allow all residents to participate fully in the sacred ceremonies.

An indoor curfew will also be observed from 7pm Thursday until 4am Friday, marking what palace officials describe as a “sacred period” for traditional rituals.

As part of the rites, the queen mother’s body will be moved from the Dwaberem at Manhyia Palace to the Bantama Royal Mausoleum for rituals, before proceeding to the Breman Royal Mausoleum for final burial—ceremonial movements rooted in centuries-old Asante custom.

The event has attracted national attention, with President John Dramani Mahama confirming his attendance.

Churches, political parties, educational institutions, NGOs, and corporate bodies are also expected to join in paying their respects, reflecting the queen mother’s influence beyond traditional circles.