Asante Kingdom Marks Sixth Akwasidae In Black and Brown, Without Ornaments

The sixth Akwasidae festival across Asanteman was marked without colours or jewellery.

This Akwasidae is referred to as “Akwasidae Tuntum” or “Kuntunkuni Dae”.

Particularly at the Manhyia Palace on August 17, 2025, participants clad sombre attire- black and brown outfits.

This depicted the Kingdom’s state of mourning following the demise of the Queen, Nana Konadu Yiadom III. The festival commemorated on a 40-day cycle historically coincided with the death of the Queen, whose One-week is yet to be observed.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, after the required rites for the festival, sat in state at the Manhyia Palace to receive homage from participants.

Joining were Nananom, royals, courtiers, the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council and many from across the country and beyond.

The occasion also witnessed the beauty of the Fontomfrom music and dance.

Dancing to the tune in homage to His Majesty were Nana Amponsah Kwaw, Atwima Kwanwomahene, Nana Nuben Sra II, Tredehene, Nana Apinkra Akwasi Awua, Kontomponiaferehene and other traditional rulers.

The exclusive Aprede dance was also on display, affording the executioners the opportunity to pay their respect to the King who mourns his traditional mother.

The sixth Akwasidae Festival was solemn but didn’t disappoint in cultural richness.

The Queen passed away peacefully at her residence on August 7, 2025. Her Majesty’s One-week observation is set for August 21, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace.

The next Akwasidae festival will fall on September 28, 2025.

Source: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/