Ghana is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic and influential women, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, who has passed away at the Ridge Hospital in Accra. Sources close to the family confirmed her passing to Citi Newsroom. She was 76 years old.
Nana Konadu, the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, was Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady, having held the position across both military and civilian administrations led by her husband. Her time as First Lady spanned more than two decades, during which she played a pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s socio-political landscape, particularly in the areas of women’s empowerment and youth development.
She first assumed the role of First Lady from June 4, 1979, to September 24, 1979, during the period of the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC). She returned to the role from December 31, 1981, to January 6, 1993, under the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) and continued to serve during Ghana’s Fourth Republic from January 7, 1993, to January 6, 2001.
Throughout her years as First Lady, Nana Konadu was widely recognized for her activism, leadership, and dedication to social change. She founded the 31st December Women’s Movement, a revolutionary organization that championed the rights of women, promoted education, and created economic opportunities for women across Ghana. Under her leadership, the movement initiated numerous projects that supported women in rural communities, empowered them with vocational skills, and gave them a stronger voice in governance and national development.
Her passion for women’s rights and political participation later inspired her to establish the National Democratic Party (NDP) in 2012 after parting ways with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the party founded by her late husband. That same year, she attempted to contest the presidency but was disqualified by the Electoral Commission along with 11 other candidates for not meeting the filing requirements before the deadline. Undeterred, she returned to the presidential race in 2016 on the ticket of the NDP, making history as the first woman to contest the presidency of Ghana.
Her determination and courage in entering the male-dominated arena of Ghanaian politics earned her immense respect from both supporters and critics. Many saw her as a symbol of resilience and a trailblazer for women seeking leadership roles in politics and governance.
In November 2018, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings released her first book titled It Takes a Woman, a 331-page autobiography that detailed her remarkable journey from her early life in 1948 through her years as First Lady, political leader, and social advocate. The book provided deep insights into her personal experiences, political struggles, and her vision for empowering women in Ghana and beyond. She revealed that the book was only the first of four volumes she planned to publish, chronicling the many chapters of her eventful life.
Born in 1948, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings was educated at Achimota School before pursuing further studies at the University of Science and Technology (now Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology), where she earned a degree in Art. Her education and strong sense of purpose shaped her worldview and commitment to public service.
Those who knew her closely describe her as a strong-willed, intelligent, and compassionate woman who believed deeply in fairness and opportunity for all. Her ability to balance her role as a wife, mother, and national figure made her a powerful role model for many Ghanaian women.
As the First Lady, she was not content with ceremonial duties; she rolled up her sleeves and engaged directly with communities across the country. Her initiatives under the 31st December Women’s Movement helped establish daycare centers, schools, and cooperatives, providing a foundation for community development, especially for underprivileged women.
Nana Konadu’s influence extended beyond politics and social activism. She was also deeply involved in promoting education, health, and youth initiatives. Her leadership style was bold and assertive—never afraid to speak her mind or challenge societal norms that limited the potential of women.
Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy continues to inspire future generations. The values she stood for—equality, justice, and empowerment—remain at the heart of Ghana’s democratic journey.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across the nation and beyond, with many describing her as a “pillar of strength” and a “visionary woman who reshaped the narrative of women in leadership.” Her life’s work not only elevated the role of women in Ghana but also demonstrated that women could lead with wisdom, courage, and compassion.
As Ghana reflects on her life and contributions, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings will be remembered not only as a former First Lady but also as a pioneer who broke barriers and opened doors for countless women. Her courage to lead, her advocacy for gender equality, and her lifelong service to the nation will forever remain a powerful chapter in Ghana’s history.
Her journey—marked by triumphs, challenges, and an unwavering commitment to change—serves as a testament to what one woman can achieve when driven by conviction and purpose.
May her soul rest in perfect peace.
— Africa Live News
