Sunyanimanhene Farewell: Sunyani Mourns the Passing of Nana Bosoma Asor Nkrawiri II

Sunyani, the vibrant capital of the Bono Region, stood somber and adorned in hues of black and red as multitudes congregated from far and wide to bid their final respects to the late Sunyanimanhene, Nana Bosoma Asor Nkrawiri II.

The funeral rites served as the pinnacle of seven days of mourning for the revered modern-day traditional leader, who had presided over the people of Sunyani for an illustrious 44 years. Notable dignitaries, including Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, alongside governmental delegations, paid their respects at the Nana Bosoma Asor Nkrawiri II Royal Palace, a revered landmark nestled off the Sunyani-Atronie road.

Among the esteemed attendees were the National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Stephen Ayensu Ntim, as well as several ministers and regional executives. The presence of parliamentary candidates and municipal and district chief executives underscored the widespread reverence for the departed leader.

The elaborate funeral ceremonies, which commenced earlier in the week and reached a crescendo on Saturday, brought Sunyani to a standstill, pausing socio-economic activities across the city, in observance of a month-long moratorium on certain public functions.

In a gesture of condolence, Dr. Bawumia made a generous donation of GH¢100,000 on behalf of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, followed by a personal contribution of an equal amount, along with assorted beverages.

Traditional customs were meticulously observed throughout the proceedings, with mourners attired in solemn black and red attire, as cultural performances and ceremonial rituals filled the air. Women adorned with symbolic red and black markings led mournful processions, accompanied by rhythmic chants and dirges, while traditional executioners added an aura of solemnity with their symbolic presence.

The reign of Nana Asor Nkrawiri II, who ascended to the chieftaincy in 1980, was characterized by a commitment to education, development, and environmental stewardship. His legacy includes notable achievements such as the establishment of the Regional Hospital, now a teaching institution, and the Nana Bosoma Market, a cornerstone of regional commerce. His dedication to sanitation initiatives earned Sunyani the reputation of being one of Ghana's cleanest cities.

A stalwart in education, Nana Asor Nkrawiri II's impact extended beyond traditional leadership roles, as he served as a respected educator and held various positions in educational and governmental institutions throughout his distinguished career.

As the sun sets on Nana Bosoma Asor Nkrawiri II's remarkable tenure, his memory will endure as a beacon of progress, unity, and development for the people of Sunyani and beyond.