Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings Passes Away at 76

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings Passes Away at 76 

Ghana is mourning the passing of its former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, who died on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the Ridge Hospital in Accra. She was 76 years old.

Nana Konadu, the widow of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, was not only a political figure but also a pioneering advocate for women’s rights and empowerment. She served as Ghana’s First Lady during her husband’s tenure from 1979 to 2001, spanning both the military and democratic eras.

Born on November 17, 1948, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was known for her strong leadership and passion for social change. In 1982, she founded the 31st December Women’s Movement, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of women through education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. Her work helped shape national conversations around gender equality and inspired generations of Ghanaian women to take up leadership roles.

Beyond her activism, Nana Konadu was a central figure in Ghana’s political landscape. In 2012, she made history as the first woman to run for president under the banner of the National Democratic Party (NDP), a bold step that reflected her lifelong commitment to national development and equality.

Tributes have since poured in from across the country and beyond, with many describing her as a trailblazer, mother figure, and symbol of resilience. Her contributions to Ghana’s socio-political growth remain undeniable, and her legacy will continue to inspire both current and future generations.

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings leaves behind a rich legacy of service, compassion, and advocacy. She will be remembered as a woman who stood firm in her convictions and worked tirelessly for the advancement of women and the betterment of Ghana.