The Assinhene of Otumfuo, Nana Yaw Akuoko, has described funerals in Asanteman as moments likened to war and characterised by symbolism amid intense emotions.
In an interview with Joy Prime, and monitored by GhanaWeb on Thursday, September 18, 2025, he explained that in the Asante tradition, the death of a royal is treated as a battle.
“Whenever there is a funeral, we take it as a war, because during such occasions the atmosphere is usually charged. We believe that death is like a war, that is why we all wear Kuntunkuni (black cloth). Anytime you see Kuntunkuni, it means that emotions are intense,” he explained.
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According to him, the regalia and symbols displayed by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during the rites carry profound meaning.
“Otumfuo’s regalia carries deep symbolism. His headgear was adorned with tendrils, resembling the natural trailing plants often seen clinging trees. When the wind blows, the tendrils sway restlessly, and in Asante tradition they represent the unsettled state of grief, echoing the question: ‘For how long will I continue to be shaken?’
“The pepper displayed in his regalia signifies heat and discomfort, depicting the painful and unpleasant reality of death. Together, these symbols capture the mood of mourning as portrayed by the Asantehene and the people of Asanteman,” Nana Akuoko stressed.
The Kuntunkuni cloth, predominantly black, is traditionally worn during funeral rites, and its significance extends beyond aesthetics.
It is woven and sometimes embossed with Adinkra symbols and subsequently dyed in predominantly black colours to fit the occasion.
It is traditionally worn alongside traditional slippers, known as “Kyawkyaw”.
The late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, will be laid to rest on Thursday night, September 18, 2025, at the Breman Royal Mausoleum (Ban mu).
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The procession will make a symbolic stop at the Bantama Royal Mausoleum for traditional rites before continuing to the final resting place of the late queen mother, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.
JKB/VPO
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