Ghana, on Friday, November 28, 2025, witnessed a deeply emotional moment of national reflection as President John Dramani Mahama paid a glowing tribute to the late Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, describing her as a pioneering national figure whose legacy will continue to shape the country for generations.
The tribute, delivered on his behalf by Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Special Aide and Senior Presidential Advisor, captured the immense influence Nana Konadu wielded across politics, gender empowerment, and national development.
President Mahama said the nation had gathered “with heavy hearts to honor the life and legacy of a truly remarkable woman,” emphasizing that Nana Konadu was far more than a former First Lady.
He described her as “a pioneering leader, an unwavering champion of women’s empowerment, a trailblazer in our political landscape, and a deeply committed patriot.” Her life, he noted, was defined by boldness—boldness to speak, to challenge, to lead, and to stand firmly for what she believed was right for Ghana.
“Her life story is one defined by boldness, boldness to speak, to challenge, to lead, and to stand resolutely for what she believed was right for Ghana. As First Lady, she redefined the role and transformed it into a platform for national development”.
President John Dramani Mahama
Through her leadership of the 31st December Women’s Movement, she turned what was once considered a ceremonial role into a powerful platform for national transformation.
President Mahama highlighted her commitment to advancing the welfare of women and girls, particularly in rural communities where development interventions were most needed.
He recalled how she vigorously championed literacy initiatives, reproductive and maternal health programs, early childhood education, and women’s economic empowerment long before these areas became recognised pillars of Ghana’s development agenda.
Many of the social policies and gender-focused interventions the country benefits from today, he noted, are built on the foundation Nana Konadu laid through decades of advocacy and community mobilization.
In his tribute, President Mahama portrayed Nana Konadu as assertive, principled, and unyielding in her public life—traits that often set her apart in Ghana’s political discourse. He said she was “never afraid to push boundaries or to stand alone when her conscience called her to do so.”
A Woman Full of Warmth, Humour, and a Deep Devotion
But beyond the strong and outspoken public image, he stressed, was a woman full of warmth, humour, and a deep devotion to her family, adding that as a mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and mentor, she brought clarity, energy, and purpose to every space she occupied.
President Mahama described her life as one rooted in service, courage, and conviction. Even during some of the most difficult periods in the nation’s political journey, she maintained her dignity and commitment to Ghana’s unity, stability, and progress.
Her belief in the transformative power of women and the potential of young people, President Mahama noted, guided much of her activism, and she consistently used her voice and influence to uplift and empower others.
The President emphasised that Nana Konadu’s passing represents “a profound loss not only to her beloved family… but also to our nation.” Her death, he said, closes a significant chapter in both Ghana’s political and social history, even as her legacy continues to inspire current and future generations.
President Mahama highlighted that her contributions spanned governance, social development, and citizen engagement—fields in which she pushed boundaries and left indelible marks.
“We celebrate a life richly lived,” he said, describing her public service as one defined by “leadership, advocacy, service, and unbroken purpose.” According to him, Nana Konadu challenged the nation to think boldly, to invest in the potential of its people, and to place women and children at the heart of national development.
President Mahama extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of his family, the National Democratic Congress, and the entire nation to the bereaved Rawlings family. He described Nana Konadu’s legacy as one that will “continue to guide us toward a more just, inclusive, and equitable Ghana.”
Her courage, he said, should remain a source of inspiration, especially at a time when the country continues to deepen its democracy and expand opportunities for all citizens.
As he concluded his tribute, President Mahama called on the nation to remember and honour Nana Konadu as a patriot who gave her life to the service of Ghana. “Fare thee well, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings,” he said. “Ghana will remember you.”
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