The man on a stretch being put in the ambulance vehicle
A dramatic scene unfolded at the Manhyia Palace on Thursday, September 18, 2025, during the final funeral rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, when a man believed to be in his 60s suddenly collapsed and fell unconscious.
The unidentified man, clad in black mourning cloth, was reportedly enjoying a spirited Kete performance when he fell to the ground. Personnel of the Ghana Ambulance Service, who were stationed at the palace premises, rushed to his aid. They performed quick resuscitation before placing him on a stretcher and transferring him into an ambulance with registration number GV 70-20.
However, the journey to the hospital proved difficult. The ambulance driver struggled to navigate through the dense crowd that had gathered at the palace grounds as early as 10:20 a.m. Matters worsened at the palace entrance, where a royal procession of chiefs and their retinues further delayed movement.
The blaring sirens of the ambulance were drowned out by the thunderous beats of Kete and Adowa ensembles, as well as the competing sound systems at the funeral. Eventually, the unconscious man was transported to the Manhyia Government Hospital for medical attention.
The incident occurred against the backdrop of a grand farewell for the Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, whose passing drew thousands of mourners and dignitaries from across Ghana and beyond. The four-day funeral rites, which culminated on Thursday, were marked by solemn rituals, colorful cultural displays, and an outpouring of grief from Asanteman.
From the early hours, the palace precincts were filled with traditional music, drumming, and dance. Chiefs adorned in rich kente, alongside subjects from all corners of the Ashanti Kingdom, paid homage to the late Queen Mother. International delegations, including groups from Togo and Benin, also participated with spectacular performances.
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, led the mourning process, receiving condolences from political leaders, traditional rulers, and foreign dignitaries. The atmosphere blended sorrow with cultural pride, as rituals honoring the Asantehemaa’s revered status were performed with strict adherence to tradition.
Despite the unfortunate collapse of the elderly man, the final rites proceeded, cementing the event as one of the largest traditional gatherings in recent memory. The passing of Nana Konadu Yiadom III, remembered for her wisdom and maternal leadership, has left a deep void in Asanteman, but her funeral also highlighted the enduring strength of Ashanti culture and unity.
FROM David Afum, Kumasi