The Government of Ghana has held a solemn state funeral for former First Lady, Professor Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, who passed away on October 23, 2025 at age 76, to honor the life and legacy.
The event took place on Friday at the Black Star Square, in Accra.
President John Dramani Mahama, who led the nation in mourning, described Prof. Agyeman-Rawlings as “a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.”
He praised her unwavering commitment to Ghana’s progress and her pioneering role in championing women’s rights, highlighting her work as founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement, established in 1982, which became a formidable platform for political and economic empowerment of women across the country.
According to him, the movement “laid the groundwork for many of the gender-sensitive policies and social interventions that Ghana benefits from today.”
President Mahama further described her as “assertive, principled and unyielding in her convictions,” noting that she was never afraid to stand alone when guided by her conscience.
He stated that, Nana Konadu lived a life of service, courage and deep conviction, adding that even in challenging national moments, she carried herself with dignity and remained steadfast in her commitment to Ghana’s unity, stability and development.
Her passing, he said, marks “the closing of an important chapter in Ghana’s political and social history but her legacy would continue to inspire generations, particularly women and young people whose empowerment she tirelessly championed’.
President Mahama extended condolences to the bereaved family on behalf of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the entire nation, emphasizing that Ghana will forever remember her contributions.
“May her beautiful soul rest in perfect peace, and may her legacy continue to guide us toward a more just, inclusive and equitable Ghana.”
Tributes were delivered by 31st December Women’s Movement, National Democratic Congress, OAA 1966/67 Combined Year Group, and family members, reflecting the profound influence of the late former First Lady on national development, women’s empowerment, and Ghana’s political history.
The ceremony drew National and International dignitaries, including former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former Vice President Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, ministers of state, government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, the Clergy, Traditional rulers, and Ghanaians who gathered to pay their final respects.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
