The Asante Kingdom has been thrown into mourning following the passing of the Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.
The Oyoko Family confirmed the passing of the second most powerful person in Asanteman to the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at an emergency Asanteman Traditional Council meeting on Monday.
Born Nana Ama Konadu, Nana Konadu Yiadom III was the 14th Asantehemaa and the biological sister of the current Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Nana Konadu Yiadom III
She became the Asantehemaa 8-years ago following the death of her mother, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, the then Asantehemaa.
Nana Konadu Yiadom is highly respected for her loyalty and counsel, strength, and devotion to tradition, having played a critical role in the preservation of Asante culture as she guided Asanteman in support of the reign of her brother, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
The Oyoko Family confirmed the death to the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
Her presence at the Manhyia Palace was not only a symbol of stability and unity within the royal family but also in the broader Asanteman.
Though details of her passing are scanty, family sources say Nana Konadu Yiadom III passed at the dawn of August 7, 2025.
The Manhyia Palace is expected to officially inform the general public and outline funeral arrangements after all traditional protocols, including all traditional rites preceding royalty death announcements, have been duly followed.Source: Nana Boakye Yiadom
Nana Konadu Yiadom III, Born in 1927 during a crucial period of Ashanti restoration, Nana Konadu Yiadom III has grown into one of the most revered and quietly influential figures in Ghana’s traditional leadership.
Her story is not just one of royal bloodline, but of prophecy, service, and a deep understanding of the unspoken power women hold in preserving tradition.
“Asantehemaa” refers to the Queen Mother of the Ashanti (Asante) people, a revered and influential leader within the Asante Kingdom. She plays a central role in the kingdom’s dual-gendered leadership system, serving alongside the Asantehene (King).
Rooted in royalty
Nana Konadu Yiadom III, known at birth as Nana Ama Konadu, and affectionately called Nana Panin, was born at the Benyaade Shrine in Merdan, Kwadaso, Kumasi.
Her birth came at a pivotal moment, as the Asante Confederacy was being restored to political significance.
She is the biological daughter of the late Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, who served as Asantehemaa from 1977 to 2016.
Her father, Opanin Kofi Fofie, known locally as Koofie or Keewuo, was a humble carpenter from Besease near Atimatim. Although she was separated from her mother while still breastfeeding, she was nurtured by her maternal aunt, Nana Afia Konadu, at Ashanti New Town (Ash-Town).
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and Asantehemaa Nana Konadu Yiadom III
No classroom, but rich wisdom
Despite not receiving formal education, Nana Konadu was immersed in rigorous informal training, rooted in tradition, womanhood, and domestic leadership.
She underwent traditional puberty rites (bragro) in her early teens alongside her niece Nana Abena Ansa. This, in many ways, marked the beginning of her lifelong journey of leadership.
She later married Opanin Kwame Boateng, a blacksmith from Aduman, Kumasi, and maintained a private yet principled lifestyle centered on humility, generosity, and strong family values.
A prophecy fulfilled
In the 1990s, a prophecy was delivered by spiritual priest Kwaku Firi Bosomfo through Baffour Akoto, a senior linguist of the Asantehene: Nana Konadu Yiadom III was destined to become the next Queen Mother.
It seemed distant then, but when her mother passed in 2016, the prophecy was fulfilled. On February 6, 2016, she was enstooled as the 14th Asantehemaa.
Asantehemaa Nana Konadu Yiadom with Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II
Her role isn’t symbolic. As Queen Mother, she nominates the Asantehene (King), provides counsel to the royal court, and serves as the moral compass of the Ashanti Kingdom.
She also stands as a central figure in protecting the matrilineal lineage and ensuring justice in traditional matters.
A reign marked by compassion
Over the years, Nanahemaa has quietly but powerfully championed social causes, particularly women’s health and child welfare. To mark her 5th anniversary as Queen Mother, she made a significant donation to the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU), Pediatric Emergency Care Unit (PICU), and Pediatric Emergency Unit (PEU) at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.
She covered the medical expenses of new mothers, setting an example of royal service through action.
In addition, she launched an annual campaign promoting breastfeeding among Ghanaian mothers, a culturally rooted but health-focused initiative.
In recognition of her generosity and impact, the Saviour Church named a school in her honour: the Nana Konadu Saviour School.
Leading with grace and justice
Nana Konadu Yiadom III is respected not only for her lineage but for the fair, calm, and wise manner in which she settles disputes. People from all walks of life approach her with confidence, knowing her judgment comes with both warmth and integrity.
Her presence at the Manhyia Palace, the heart of the Ashanti Kingdom, represents more than tradition.
It reflects a legacy of maternal power, lived wisdom, and cultural preservation. She embodies what it means to lead without seeking attention, to influence without noise, and to rule with a mother’s touch.
A legacy in motion
As Nana Konadu Yiadom III continues her reign, her legacy grows not from declarations, but from everyday decisions and acts of kindness. In a society that often celebrates loud authority, she stands as proof that quiet power can shape kingdoms.
The Golden Stool may rest with the Asantehene, but its rhythm beats just as strongly in the heart of the Queen Mother.
Here’s a table analysis of the biography of Nana Konadu Yiadom III, Asantehemaa, organized into clear categories for easy reference and understanding:
Table: Analytical Breakdown of Nana Konadu Yiadom III’s Biography
Category
Details
Full Title
Nana Konadu Yiadom III
Role/Position
14th Asantehemaa (Queen Mother of the Ashanti Kingdom)
Date of Enstoolment
February 6, 2016
Traditional Function
– Nominates Asantehene
– Advises the royal court
– Oversees women’s affairs and succession
– Custodian of Ashanti culture
Birth Name
Nana Ama Konadu
Other Names
Nana Panin / Naa Panin
Year of Birth
1927
Age
98 years old (as of 2025)
Place of Birth
Benyaade Shrine, Merdan, Kwadaso, Kumasi
Mother
Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II (Asantehemaa from 1977–2016)
Father
Opanin Kofi Fofie (a.k.a. Koofie or Keewuo), a carpenter from Besease near Atimatim, Kumasi
Guardian (from infancy)
Nana Afia Konadu (mother’s sister, raised her at Ashanti New Town – Ash-Town)
Education
No formal education; received high-quality informal training in traditional leadership and domestic life
Puberty Rites
Underwent bragro (puberty initiation) with niece Nana Abena Ansa
Marital Status
Married to Opanin Kwame Boateng
Spouse’s Profession
Blacksmith from Aduman, Kumasi
Prophecy of Reign
Foretold in the mid-1990s by Kwaku Firi Bosomfo via Baffour Akoto
Religious Belief
Deeply religious; committed to God’s work
Key Personality Traits
Calm, fair, kind-hearted, hardworking, humble, unassuming, accommodating, just
Conflict Resolution Record
All cases brought before her have been resolved fairly and amicably
Philanthropy – Healthcare
Paid medical bills and donated supplies to:
– Mother-Baby Unit (MBU)
– Pediatric Emergency Care Unit (PICU)
– PEU at KATH & Manhyia
Advocacy
Promotes breastfeeding through an annual campaign
Legacy in Education
Honoured with the naming of Nana Konadu Saviour School by the Saviour Church
Seat of Power
Manhyia Palace, Kumasi (official residence of Asantehemaa and Asantehene)
Cultural Importance
Represents the maternal arm of Ashanti governance; guardian of matrilineal succession and traditional justice
Anniversary Celebration
Marked her 5th anniversary in 2021 with large-scale donations and social interventions
The Private Universities Founders Association (PUFA), Ghana, has expressed its deepest sympathies to the government and families of eight notable Ghanaians who lost their lives in a tragic helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District, Ashanti Region, on August 6, 2025.
The deceased include Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; and Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), among others.
In a statement signed by its President, Dr. Paul Fynn, PUFA described the loss as a national tragedy that has robbed the country of dedicated public servants who have devoted their lives to its progress.
PUFA stands in solidarity with the government and people of Ghana during this time of mourning, praying for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and for strength, comfort, and healing for their families and all those affected by the incident.
The association’s condolences reflect the widespread shock and grief that has gripped the nation following the tragic incident.
It is with a profoundly heavy heart that I address you tonight. Yesterday, a tragic helicopter crash in Adansi Akrofuom claimed the lives of eight cherished members of our Ghanaian family. The victims of this accident include five passengers and three dedicated members of the Ghana Armed Forces.
Among them were:
Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence.
§ Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology.
§ Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator.
§ Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress.
§ Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO.
§ Squadron Leader Peter Anala of the Ghana Air Force
§ Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu of the Ghana Air Force.
§ Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force.
This tragedy represents a deep personal loss for me. I shared close bonds with many of these individuals who died. Our nation is grieving. On behalf of the government and the people of Ghana, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones. Know that our entire country mourns with you. We share your pain. Your loss is our loss—a loss of dedicated public servants, intellectuals, and individuals who relentlessly worked for a better Ghana.
President John Mahama
These eight individuals dedicated their lives to Ghana’s progress. That their final moments were spent in service is a testament to their unwavering commitment. We have lost some of our nation’s brightest minds.
This is a moment of shared heartbreak, a need to reflect on the preciousness of life, the sacrifices of public service, and our gratitude for those who dedicate themselves to the well-being of Ghana.
Squadron Leader Anala, Flying Officer Ampadu, and Sergeant Addo were dedicated members of our Air Force, embodying the best of their profession.
Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna was a humble yet effective public servant. Samuel Sarpong was a respected statesman, and Mr. Samuel Aboagye was a promising leader. Dr. Omane Boamah was a brilliant and dedicated leader. Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed was a passionate voice for his constituents and a champion for environmental stewardship.
These gallant men each served Ghana with distinction. As we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important. I want to assure the families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.
An InvesNgaNve Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash. The flight data and cock pit voice recorders have been retrieved. All eight of the bodies of our departed comrades have been retrieved, and the government is in close touch with the bereaved families about identification of the bodies and final interment.
In this moment of national grief, let us remember that we are, above all, Ghanaians – united not just by nationality but by shared hope, shared humanity, and now, shared sorrow. Let us set aside our differences and offer our collective compassion to the bereaved families.
This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.
To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy.
May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served.
On Saturday, 9th August at 5.00 pm, the nation will gather at the forecourt of the State House for an Evening of Reflection and Memorial in honour of our departed colleagues.
Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.
On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight heroes at the Black Star Square.
My brothers and sisters, countrymen and women, may God bless their souls.
PRESS STATEMENT
Condolence Message from Okpekpewuokpe Togbui Dagadu IX, King of Akpini State, on the Passing of Honourable Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence and seven others
Kpando, Ghana – August 7, 2025
The Akpini State, under the leadership of Okpekpewuokpe Togbui Dagadu IX, Akpinifia has received with deep sorrow the tragic news of the untimely passing of Honourable Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence, and seven others who died in a helicopter crash en route to a national assignment.
,
Okpewuokpe Togbui Dagadu IX
This devastating event has left not only the nation but also the people of Akpini in mourning. Togbui Dagadu IX recalls with fondness his recent visit to the Honourable Minister’s office, during which matters of mutual interest to the people of Kpando and the Ministry of Defence were thoughtfully discussed. The Minister received the King with grace and demonstrated a sincere commitment to working collaboratively for the benefit of all, especially in enhancing civil-military relations within the Volta Region.
The Honourable Minister of Defence was a true statesman, an accomplished professional, and a servant of the Republic whose life was dedicated to the protection, peace, and unity of our dear country. His humility, foresight, and dedication to duty were evident. His passing is not just a national tragedy—it is a personal loss to the Akpini State.
On behalf of the chiefs, elders, and citizens of Akpini State, Okpekpewuokpe Togbui Dagadu IX expresses heartfelt condolences to:
His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana
The Government and People of Ghana
The Ministry of Defence
The bereaved families of the Honourable Minister and the seven others.
May the soul of Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and the seven others rest in perfect peace, and may his service to Ghana continue to inspire us all. We share in this grief and stand in sol-idarity with all those affected.
Signed,
Okpewuokpe Togbui Dagadu IX
Paramount Chief of Akpini State
Kpando – Volta Region
TO ALL MEDIA HOUSES
Accra August 6, 2025 MTN Ghana has received with deep sadness and shock the devastating news of a helicopter crash earlier today involving the Honourable Minister for Defence, the Honourable Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation and six other individuals.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to His Excellency the President of the Republic, the Government and the people of Ghana, and to the families, friends and colleagues of all those affected by this tragic incident.
MTN Ghana CEO Stephen Blewett also said, “We appeal to all to honour the memories of the departed with dignity and to use their social media platforms to promote messages of hope, solidarity, and compassion”.
May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace.
MTN Ghana
End.
Media Contacts:
Nana Kofi Asare
Acting for Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer
MTN Ghana
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We, members of the Ghana Agriculture and Rural Development Journalists Association
(GARDJA), dedicated to reporting on the country’s environment, agriculture, and rural
development, express our deepest sorrow over the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight gallant Ghanaians on Tuesday, August 6, 2025, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.
This devastating loss is felt deeply within our community, as we understand and report daily on the selfless work that many undertake to protect Ghana’s natural resources, support rural
livelihoods, and advance sustainable development. Some of the individuals aboard the helicopter were reportedly engaged in duties critical to national interests in these very areas, serving quietly but powerfully to defend our forests, lands, and rural stability.
Their deaths are not only a national tragedy but a profound loss to the ongoing efforts to protect our environment and support vulnerable farming and rural communities.
Their commitment
reminds us of the immense sacrifices made in the service of causes that often go unrecognised
but are vital to our shared future.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the military and government institutions they served, and the entire nation.
As journalists, we pledge to honour their memory
by continuing to shine a light on the importance of the work they died doing, and by amplifying the stories of those who dedicate their lives to Ghana’s environmental and rural development.
GHANA JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION (GJA) COMMISERATES WITH NATION FOLLOWING TRAGIC HELICOPTER CRASH KILLING EIGHT OFFICIALS IN THE ASHANTI REGION.
August 7, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
GJA Consoles Families, Nation Over Lost of Eight Officials in Helicopter Crash
ACCRA – The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) is absolutely devastated by the
tragic death of five high-ranking government officials and a three-member crew of
the Ghana Air force in a helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, in the Adansi
District in the Ashanti Region. Our heart is heavy with grief, and we stand in solemn
solidarity with the nation in this moment of great national loss.
Albert Kwabena Dwum four
(President)
The GJA extends deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of the bereaved,
especially their spouses and children; the President of the Republic and the
Government of Ghana, and the Ghana Armed Forces, who are now contending with
unimaginable pain and grief for their loss. We pray for God’s divine strength and
comfort to envelop them during this incredibly difficult time.
The deceased were gallant servants of the nation who were on a mission to address a
critical challenge facing the nation currently – illegal small-scale mining popularly
known as galamsey – before the unfortunate incident occurred. That is why even in this
moment of downheartedness, we need to extol their virtues and dedication to the
ideals of integrity, service and progress of Mother Ghana.
The GJA particularly recalls the cordial relations the Association had with Dr Edward
Omane-Boamah during his tenure as Minister for Communications and Dr Ibrahim
Murtala Mohammed during his tenure as Deputy Minister of Information, in the first
Mahama Administration. Our thoughts and prayers are with every single person
affected by this devastating tragedy.
We take this opportunity to highly commend security, emergency and hospital officials,
as well as all those who worked tirelessly to recover the remains of the deceased from th
e wreckage and transport them to the morgue. We appreciate their dedication to
service even in the face of intense emotion and trepidation.
In this period of grief, the GJA urges all journalists and media houses to exercise the
highest level of professionalism and empathy in their reportage.
We entreat media
practitioners across all platforms, including traditional and new media, to be ethical,
circumspect and sensitive in their reportage. We must honour the memory of the
departed by treating this incident with the dignity and respect the deceased deserve.
In that regard, we specifically call on all journalists and media houses, as well as the
general public, to cease the circulation of gory images of the accident since they are
highly insensitive and a direct violation of our code of ethics.
Following the tragedy, the National Executive has suspended all planned activities of
the Association until further notice.
May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace.
SIGNED
Albert Kwabena Dwum four
(President)
ACCRA, GHANA – August 7, 2025 – The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) is deeply saddened by the tragic helicopter crash that occurred on the morning of Wednesday, August 6, 2025, near Adansi Sikaman in the Ashanti Region. The crash claimed the lives of eight distinguished Ghanaians, including senior government officials and military personnel.
PRINPAG extends its heartfelt condolences to the President of the Republic, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, the Government of Ghana, the bereaved families, the Ghana Armed Forces, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and all Ghanaians affected by this devastating national tragedy.
The nation has suffered a profound loss with the deaths of dedicated public servants, including Dr. Omane-Boamah and Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. We also mourn the untimely passing of the other six individuals on board: Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Mr. Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafimi Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo-Mensah. Their contributions to our nation will not be forgotten.
In the wake of this tragedy, PRINPAG urges all journalists, particularly its members, to exercise the utmost responsibility and sensitivity in their reportage. We must remember that behind every name is a family grieving a loved one. We implore our colleagues to avoid sensationalism, respect the privacy of the bereaved families, and report only accurate, verified information. This is a time for national mourning, and we must uphold the highest standards of journalistic ethics and professionalism.
PRINPAG stands in solidarity with the nation in mourning this irreplaceable loss. We call on the general public to allow the bereaved families space to grieve in peace and encourage all Ghanaians to keep them in their thoughts and prayers.
May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace.
A tragic military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6, has reportedly claimed the lives of the Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
Others who have been confirmed dead in the crash are Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, and Samuel Aboagye a former Parliamentary Candidate, and Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of NDC.
The crew members are Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed & Dr. Edward Omane Boamah
According to initial reports, the high-ranking government officials were aboard a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter en route to Obuasi when the aircraft went off radar.
Emergency response teams rushed to the crash site following the incident. Graphic footage and images obtained by Citi News showed the charred remains of several victims, though officials have yet to release a full list of the deceased or injured.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, who was attending an anti-illegal mining event at the time, reportedly abandoned the programme and rushed to the crash scene upon receiving the news.
In a brief statement, the Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that efforts were underway to trace and assess the wreckage of the helicopter after it lost contact shortly after takeoff on Wednesday morning. The cause of the crash remains unknown, and authorities have yet to confirm further details.
This incident comes more than a year after a previous helicopter accident on March 19, 2024, when a military aircraft crash-landed near Bonsukrom in the Western Region. Fortunately, that earlier crash resulted in no fatalities.
More updates are expected as investigations continue and families are notified.Source:Leticia Osei
