President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the Vice-President, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, on Saturday joined Ghanaians to observe the final funeral rites of the late Ga Manye, Naa Dedei Omaedru III, in Accra.
It was a solemn occasion characterised by tributes, prayers, cultural displays and performances by the Asafoatsemei and Asafoanyemei (men and women warriors).
The event also had in attendance Ministers of State, Members of Parliament and the Diplomatic Corps, traditional authorities, and host of other dignitaries.
President Akufo-Addo donated drinks and assorted items and presented GHC100,000 cash while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) also donated GHC10,000 cedis to support the funeral.
Members of Parliament, the Clergy, Heads of Security Agencies, and a host of invited guests, including representatives of Otumfour, Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, all came to show solidarity.
Dasebere Nana Kwaku Boateng III, Omanhene (Paramount Chief) New Juabeng Traditional Area, delegation of Chiefs from Akropong, Akwamu, Akyem, Adukrom, Ashanti, Agotime, Aburi, Oguaa, as well as representatives of political parties were not left out.
Clad in black and white outfit, indigenes turned up in their numbers to catch a glimpse of the royal funeral.
Various Paramount Chiefs of the Ga State took turns to bid farewale to the Queen and “took back their oath” as customs demanded.
The Ga Manye, known in private life as Naa Dedei Ablah, passed away at the age of 88 on December 26, 2022.
Enstooled in 1963, she demonstrated an extraordinary sense of Ga customs and fairness, while seeking the welfare of women.
President Nana Akufo-Addo, in a tribute prior to the funeral rites, described the Naa Omaedru as: “A faithful, hardworking, long-serving member of the Ga State.”
“She was a model of traditional dignity and elegance.”
Her reign was marked by a dedication to public and voluntary service, with a focus on promoting peace, education and opportunities for young people, especially girls.
The event saw economic activities at the Accra Central Business District (CBD) come to a halt as shops were closed to reflect to state of mourning.
This followed a directive from the Ga Traditional Council.
Per the funeral arrangements, a thanksgiving service will be held at the Holy Trinity Cathedral of the Anglican Church, on Sunday, October 29, followed by further traditional rites.
GNA