The Government of Ghana has declared three days of national mourning following the passing of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, a towering figure in the country’s political and social history.
President John Dramani Mahama, announcing the decision on behalf of the government, described the observance as a gesture of deep national respect for a woman whose life was dedicated to advancing women’s empowerment, child welfare, and social development.
In a statement issued by Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP) Spokesperson to the President, Minister, Government Communications, President Mahama declared that the national mourning period would last from Friday, October 24 to Sunday, October 26, 2025, with all flags flying at half-mast across public buildings, government installations, and Ghana’s diplomatic missions abroad.
“This is in honour of her memory and in recognition of her distinguished service to our nation. Mrs Agyeman-Rawlings served Ghana with dedication and commitment, particularly in women’s empowerment, child welfare, and social development.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP) Spokesperson to the President, Minister, Government Communications.
The President extended condolences to the family and children of the late former First Lady, adding, “May her soul rest in perfect peace.” Reflecting on her life and contributions, President Mahama paid tribute to Nana Konadu’s enduring influence on Ghana’s political and social landscape.
“H.E. Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings’ legacy and dedication to empowering women and serving our country will never be forgotten. RIP Madam,” he said, underscoring the depth of her impact on national development and the advancement of women in public life.
Ghana’s Longest-Serving First Lady
Born into a prominent family, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings became one of the most influential women in Ghana’s modern history. As the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, she was Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady and a pioneering advocate for women’s rights.
Through the 31st December Women’s Movement, which she founded in the early 1980s, she mobilized thousands of women across the country to pursue economic independence, access education, and participate in governance.
Her movement was instrumental in establishing women’s cooperatives, daycare centers, and small-scale enterprises that transformed the lives of many in rural and urban communities alike. Her passing has prompted a wave of tributes across the political divide, reflecting her broad and lasting influence on Ghana’s public life.
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in a heartfelt message, described her as “the longest serving First Lady in our history and the Founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement.” He noted that Mrs. Rawlings’ work as a gender advocate and her contribution to women’s empowerment remained unmatched.
“As a role model for women in Ghana and across Africa, Mrs. Rawlings’ gender advocacy and women empowerment initiatives remain impactful to this day”.
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
He recalled her warmth, humour, and sharp intellect, describing her as “a warm and affectionate woman, with a good sense of humor and excellent company.”
The former President extended condolences on behalf of himself, his wife Rebecca Akufo-Addo, and their family to the children of the late Mrs. Rawlings. “May her soul rest peacefully in the bosom of the Almighty, until the Last Day of the Resurrection, when we shall meet again,” he concluded.
Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia also shared his grief, calling the death of Nana Konadu a great national loss. “To the children and family of the late Madam Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, I share in your sorrow and extend my deepest condolences on your loss,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia described the late First Lady as a visionary who “leaves behind a legacy defined by her unwavering commitment to the nation’s women and girls.” He emphasized that her impact went beyond speeches and symbolism, saying, “She didn’t just speak about women’s rights; she mobilized a movement.”
Her leadership, he said, empowered “countless women across Ghana to achieve financial independence and take up leadership roles,” ensuring that her name would forever remain synonymous with progress in women’s development. “May her soul rest in perfect peace,” he added.
The Greatest Ghanaian Feminist
In a powerful tribute that captured her revolutionary spirit, activist and lawyer Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor hailed her as “the Greatest Ghanaian Feminist.” His message reflected the passion and political edge that defined Nana Konadu’s life.
“Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings opened a door and set a standard that no First Lady has ever met. She was the Revolution! She made modern Ghana in the way Nkrumah birthed Ghana”.
Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor
In a striking comparison, Barker-Vormawor said, “If Nkrumah was Ghana’s Father, only Konadu is fit to be Mother.” Indeed, her influence extended beyond advocacy into the political sphere. In 2016, Nana Konadu made history by becoming the first woman to contest Ghana’s presidency, leading the National Democratic Party (NDP).
Her candidacy reflected her belief in women’s leadership and her willingness to challenge the established political order, even within the movement she helped shape. Her political journey, though controversial at times, exemplified her courage, conviction, and commitment to principle.
Tributes have also poured in from many political figures, civil society groups, women’s organizations, and former colleagues of the 31st December Women’s Movement, many of whom credit her with changing the face of women’s activism in Ghana. Her tireless advocacy laid the foundation for several gender-focused policies and programs that continue to benefit women and children today.
As the nation mourns her passing, many Ghanaians are reflecting on the enduring lessons of her life — her belief in the power of women to shape society, her resilience in public service, and her fearless pursuit of equality.
Her leadership, often marked by boldness and tenacity, left a deep imprint on Ghana’s political evolution, influencing generations of women to step into spaces of power and influence.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings’ passing closes a remarkable chapter in Ghana’s story — one marked by activism, transformation, and the redefinition of women’s roles in national life.
She will be remembered not only as the wife of a revolutionary leader but as a revolutionary in her own right — a woman who changed lives, shaped institutions, and embodied the ideals of courage and service.
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