As part of the climax of the General Conference Women’s Ministries Emphasis Week, the Women’s Ministries Department of the Ashanti Central Ghana Conference (ASCG) paid a respectful courtesy call on Nana Konadu Yiadom III, the Asantehemaa, at her palace in Manhyia, Kumasi, on June 15, 2025.

This significant gesture was not only to show reverence to traditional authority but also to affirm the Adventist Church’s commitment to promoting peace, unity, and the empowerment of women within the Ghanaian cultural context.

The high-powered delegation from ASCG was led by, Pastor Jonathan Owusu, President of ASCG, Pastor George Essel, Executive Secretary, ASCG, Pastor H.E. Diaba, Ministerial Secretary, ASCG, Mrs. Victoria Kokonu, Director of Women and Children’s Ministries, ASCG, Shepherdess Mary Owusu, Coordinator, ASCG Shepherdess International.

Along with district and local Women’s Ministries leaders from across the conference.

To honor the occasion, the women ministers performed traditional Akan music and dance, which delighted the Asantehemaa and her elders, creating a moment of cultural harmony and celebration.

The formal introduction of dignitaries was done by Pastor George Essel and Mrs. Victoria Kokonu.

In a brief address delivered through her linguist, Nana Mensah Bonsu, Nana Konadu Yiadom III shared words of wisdom and encouragement with the delegation. She urged the women to pursue peace in all aspects of life, emphasizing that a peaceful society begins with women.

“When there is peace among women, I am at peace as a mother of the land—and I can rule with a sound mind,” she stated.
Pastor Jonathan Owusu, in response, offered a heartfelt prayer for the Asantehemaa, committing her health, leadership, and the well-being of the Ashanti Kingdom into God’s hands. He prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and continued grace upon her reign.
As a token of appreciation and goodwill, the Women’s Ministries presented assorted items and an undisclosed cash donation to the Asantehemaa. In return, Nana Konadu Yiadom III expressed her profound gratitude, acknowledging the Adventist Women for their prayers, presence, and thoughtful gifts.

In an interview with Hope Adventist News, Mrs. Victoria Kokonu, Director of Women and Children’s Ministries of ASCG, explained the motivation behind the visit:

“This was a symbolic act to connect spiritual ministry with cultural values. We came to honor the Queen Mother and reaffirm our commitment to being peacemakers and nurturers in society.”
Shepherdess Mary Owusu, also speaking to Hope Adventist News, reflected on the Asantehemaa’s wise counsel and urged all women to take the advice seriously and become pillars of peace in their homes, churches, and communities.
About the Asantehemaa:

Born as Nana Ama Konadu, she is the daughter of Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, the 13th Asantehemaa, and Opanin Kofi Fofie, a carpenter from Besease near Atimatim in Kumasi. Her birth is estimated around 1927, making her the eldest sister of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the current Asantehene.

Nana Konadu Yiadom III was enstooled as the 14th Asantehemaa on February 6, 2017, at the age of 83, following the passing of her mother, who served in the role for 39 years.

This visit by the ASCG Women’s Ministries not only marked the close of a global church celebration but also symbolized the unity between the Adventist Christian faith and traditional leadership in promoting peace and community development.