Sales of Ahenema, a traditional slipper, have surged in the Ashanti Regional capital, Kumasi, following the final funeral rites of Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.
Manufacturers and traders of the traditional slipper, also known as “Kyawkyaw,” told Kumasi FM’s Elisha Adarkwah that while sales were steady before, the funeral has significantly boosted their purchases.
During visits to shops and those selling them outside, some mourners were seen buying and polishing their Ahenema slippers.
Ahenema holds significant socio-cultural importance in Asante culture, featuring meaningful symbols and colours that vary depending on the occasion.
The black “Kyawkyaw” slippers are primarily worn for funerals, and the design and name of the slipper often reflect the identity of the wearer.
Notable names for Ahenema include “besepa ne konin ahaban,” “Anibere a nso gya,” “sika wo ataban,” “ensebe,” and others.
These traditional and royal slippers are typically worn by chiefs and queens at events such as funerals, festivals, and weddings.
According to researchers, the origin of this fashion object dates back to the 18th century during the reign of the 4th Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Kwadwo Okoawia, who ruled from 1764 to 1777.
During the ongoing final funeral rites of the late Asantehemaa, many attendees, particularly chiefs and queens, were observed wearing the royal Ahenema slippers alongside their traditional “Kunkunkuri” apparel.
The event featured a rich and unique cultural display, “kete” performances, “adowa” dancing, and “fontomfrom,” accompanied by the firing of muskets.
Traditional ornaments, such as umbrellas and regalia, were also exhibited during the funeral rites.
The chief mourner, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, was seen in his “Kunkunkuri,” seated in a palanquin and accompanied by his subchiefs.
Otumfuo was ushered to the funeral grounds with the sound of “fontomforom” drumming.
Nana Konadu Yiadom III, the late Asantehemaa, was born in 1927 and passed away in August 2025.
She served as the 14th Asantehemaa, succeeding her mother, the 13th Asantehemaa, who died in 2016.
Her younger brother is the current Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
The final funeral rites, being held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, began on Monday, September 15, 2025, and are expected to conclude on September 18, 2025.
Many local and foreign dignitaries, including President John Mahama, are anticipated to attend the traditional event to transit her to her ancestral home.
Credit :Elisha Adarkwah
