In a vivid display of Asante cultural heritage, the final funeral rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, concluded on September 18, 2025, at Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Ghana.
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The four-day event, which began on September 14, featured a series of traditional ceremonies, including a curfew enforced by the Abrafoɔ, or traditional executioners. One such figure, dressed in a striking black outfit and wielding symbolic weapons, was captured in a viral video reiterating the directive to remain indoors, a measure taken to honor the late Queen Mother and maintain order during the rites. This blend of ancient customs and modern elements, such as the executioner’s Nike bag, highlighted the evolving nature of Asante traditions in contemporary society.
Remain indoors. Don’t be stubborn
—Asante traditional executioner reiterates the directive of a curfew by the traditional council as part of the final funeral rites in honor of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III pic.twitter.com/aS0jeJ7WLN
— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) September 18, 2025
The role of the Abrafoɔ, historically responsible for carrying out executions and enforcing traditional laws, remains a significant part of Asante chieftaincy, even as the Asante Empire has been integrated into modern Ghana since 1902. During the funeral rites, these figures were tasked with ensuring compliance with the curfew, a practice rooted in the matrilineal system that grants women, like the Asantehemaa, authority and continuity within the community. The late Nana Konadu Yiadom III, who passed away on August 7, 2025, at the age of 98, was laid in state, allowing the public and dignitaries to pay their respects, further emphasizing her pivotal role in Asante governance and culture.
The video, which circulated widely on social media, showcased the executioner’s commanding presence and the cultural richness of the occasion. The individual’s attire, complete with a rustic, blackened appearance and traditional accessories, contrasted with the modern Nike bag, symbolizing a bridge between past and present. This juxtaposition has sparked discussions on the adaptability of Asante traditions in the face of globalization, with many noting the executioner’s role as both a guardian of heritage and a participant in modern life. The event also included other traditional elements like the Adae and Akwasidae festivals, which celebrate Asante identity and history.
Asante cultural practices, such as the puberty rites for girls known as bragoro and the advisory role of women in governance, continue to shape the community’s values. The funeral rites of Nana Konadu Yiadom III served as a reminder of these enduring traditions, while also reflecting the dynamic nature of Asante society. The partial lockdown and curfew, enforced by figures like the executioner, underscored the community’s commitment to honoring their leaders and maintaining cultural continuity, even as external influences shape daily life.
The conclusion of the funeral rites marks a significant moment in Asante history, reinforcing the importance of cultural preservation amidst modern challenges. As the Asante people navigate their identity in the 21st century, events like these highlight the resilience and adaptability of their traditions. The viral video of the executioner, with its blend of tradition and modernity, has not only captured global attention but also sparked a renewed appreciation for the rich tapestry of Asante heritage, ensuring its relevance for future generations.
