Nana Ama Bonsu Takes Over As Asante Queen Mother
Nana Ama Bonsu has officially assumed office as the 15th Asantehemaa following her outdooring and enstoolment at the Manhyia Palace on Monday.
The colourful traditional ceremony ended the vacancy created by the passing of the late Nana Konadu Yiadom III in 2025 and ushered in a new Queen Mother for the Asante Kingdom.
Her installation was performed in accordance with centuries-old Asante customs under the leadership of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
As part of the customary process, the Asantehene convened a meeting of key traditional authorities, including the Kokofuhemaa, Kenyasehemaa, Nana Asantehemaa Kotimso ne Nkonson, Otumfuo Gyaasehene, the Oyoko Abohyen Abusuapanin and other senior elders, where Nana Ama Bonsu was formally announced as the nominee for the revered female stool.
Following the announcement, the traditional leaders escorted her in a grand procession to the Asantehemaa’s Palace amid drumming, singing and cheers from supporters.
In line with Asante tradition, she was sprinkled with white powder, symbolising victory and joy, before being ushered into the palace and seated on the Asantehemaa stool.
The Asantehene’s Linguist, Baffour Kantankrakyi, formally proclaimed her enstoolment in the presence of chiefs, elders and members of the royal family, who later paid homage to the new Queen Mother.
Palace sources said Nana Ama Bonsu will proceed to the stool house to perform the final customary rites before adopting her official stool name.
She is also expected to be introduced to the Asanteman Traditional Council and the Kumasi Traditional Council in the coming days, where her stool name is likely to be publicly announced.
The Asantehemaa occupies one of the highest traditional offices in the Asante Kingdom. Beyond serving as Queen Mother, she is the custodian of the royal lineage, principal adviser to the Asantehene and plays a crucial role in the nomination of a new Asantehene whenever the Golden Stool becomes vacant. She also champions the welfare of women, children and the preservation of the rich customs and traditions of Asanteman.
The successful installation of Nana Ama Bonsu has been welcomed across Asanteman, with many describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening the kingdom’s revered traditional institution.
