By Barima K. Saakwa
The Akwamu Traditional Area came alive with colour, culture, and celebration as Nana Afrakoma II, Paramount Queen Mother of Akwamu, marked 80 years on the stool—a historic milestone believed to make her the longest-serving paramount queen mother in Ghana.
The anniversary celebrations, held at Akwamufie in the Asuogyaman District, featured a rich blend of spiritual rites, thanksgiving, music, and a grand durbar attended by traditional leaders, government officials, and community members.
Spiritual Rites and Thanksgiving
Activities began with the purification of the Bosom Anyensu Shrine and spiritual cleansing of the Black Stool—rites central to Akwamu tradition. A thanksgiving service followed at the Akwamufie Presbyterian Church on Sunday, November 15, 2026, drawing family members, chiefs, queen mothers, and well-wishers.
Grand Durbar and Valentine’s Day Celebration
The climax was a grand durbar held on Saturday, February 14, 2026—Valentine’s Day—where chocolates were shared with attendees in celebration of love and unity. A cocktail reception was also hosted at the Queen Mother’s newly built ultramodern mansion in Akwamufie, officially commissioned to honour and accommodate her.
Dignitaries in Attendance
Among the notable guests were Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, Paramount Chief of the Dormaa Traditional Area, who commended Nana Afrakoma II for her longstanding support that has helped sustain peace in Dormaa.
Other dignitaries included Thomas Nyarko Ampem, Deputy Minister for Finance; Godwin Bobobee, District Chief Executive for Asuogyaman; and several traditional rulers and opinion leaders.
A Life of Service
Born Christiana Yaa Boamah (Attaa Payin) on February 14, 1946, to the late Kwasi Gyan of Akwamu-Gyakiti and Maame Ama Addobea of Akwamufie, Nana Afrakoma II is the twin sister of the late Christiana Boamah Gyan, mother of Kwafo Akoto III. As a child, she aspired to become a nurse, driven by compassion for humanity.
In March 1964, at just 18 years old, she was enstooled as Queen Mother following the final funeral rites of Nana Akua Ansaah. Though initially overwhelmed, she embraced the responsibility and has served faithfully ever since—never turning her back on her people.
Legacy and Achievements
Over eight decades on the stool, Nana Afrakoma II has been a pillar of development and women’s empowerment in Akwamuman. Her contributions include:
- Service on the Anti-Human Trafficking Board under the Ministry of Gender and Social Protection during the Busia era Establishment of a Vocational and Skills Training Institute for young girls.
- A foundation supporting widows, farmers, and the needy Advocacy that led to Akwamuman Senior Secondary School being absorbed into the public school system, working with women leaders and securing government approval and leadership for the school
Looking Ahead
Described as fearless and compassionate, Nana Afrakoma II thanked God for strength and protection over the years and pledged to continue serving Akwamuman until her Maker calls her to rest.
As tributes poured in from chiefs, queen mothers, grandchildren, and citizens, the celebrations underscored not only a personal milestone but also a living legacy of leadership, service, and cultural continuity.