Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former First Lady of Ghana, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, describing her as a trailblazer whose lifelong dedication to women’s empowerment in Ghana and across Africa will never be forgotten.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, passed away at age 76 at the Ridge Hospital in Accra on Thursday, October 23, 2025.
In a Facebook post on Friday, the former president expressed deep sorrow over her passing, recalling her pivotal role in advancing gender equality and empowering women through the 31st December Women’s Movement, which she founded.
“My wife Rebecca and I are deeply saddened by the news of the untimely passing of the wife of the late first President of the 4th Republic, His Excellency Jerry John Rawlings, the longest serving First Lady in our history and the Founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement, H.E. Mrs Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings,” he wrote.
He lauded her as a “role model for women in Ghana and across Africa,” noting that “Mrs. Rawlings’ gender advocacy and women empowerment initiatives remain impactful to this day.”
Highlighting her lasting legacy, Akufo-Addo stressed that “Her commitment to the growth of the women’s movement in Ghana and Africa can never be forgotten.”
The former president also reflected on her personal warmth and character, saying, “She was a warm and affectionate woman, with a good sense of humour and was excellent company.”
Akufo-Addo extended condolences to the bereaved family, stating, “Rebecca, my children and I, extend our deepest condolences to her children and family on this sad occasion.”
He concluded his tribute with a solemn prayer: “May her soul rest peacefully in the bosom of the Almighty, until the Last Day of the Resurrection, when we shall meet again.”
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, a prominent political figure and women’s rights advocate. She was First Lady of Ghana from June 4, 1979 to September 24, 1979 and fro December 31, 1981 to 7 January 7, 2001. Her death marks the end of an era in Ghana’s political and social history, leaving behind a powerful legacy of leadership, courage, and advocacy for women’s empowerment.
