Spectacular Rituals Mark Day Three of Asantehemaa’s Funeral
Spiritualists and traditional groups from across Africa set the tone for day three of the final funeral rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, with striking rituals and cultural displays at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
Delegations from Benin and Togo amazed mourners with sacred performances featuring revered deities, offering a rare glimpse into their deep-rooted customs. The people of Aflao also held the crowd spellbound with a dramatic ritual that saw flames rising from water in a vessel — a symbolic act that stirred awe and excitement among onlookers.
A mourner who witnessed the spectacle told the SWIFTNEWS3, “This is not something you see every day. It is a reminder of how African traditions, though varied, can come together under the influence of the Ashanti Kingdom.”
The cultural displays blended with the solemn atmosphere as thousands of mourners, sympathizers, and well-wishers thronged the palace grounds to pay their respects.
Speaking to the media, a cultural commentator at the event observed, “The Asantehemaa’s funeral is more than mourning. It has become a showcase of Africa’s cultural richness, demonstrating the power of tradition to unify people.”
The rites, which will continue throughout the week, are expected to draw additional delegations from across the continent, further highlighting the far-reaching influence of the Asante Kingdom and the revered status of the late queen mother.
