Former First Lady of Ghana, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, passed away on October 23, 2025, in Accra, at the age of 76. A committed activist and pioneer of women's rights, she leaves behind a political and social legacy deeply rooted in the country's history.

A life in service to women and the nation

First Lady from 1981 to 2001, alongside President Jerry John Rawlings, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was never simply a ceremonial figure. From an early age, she distinguished herself through her commitment to women and rural communities.

In 1982, she founded the 31 December Women's Movement , a social organization that has helped empower thousands of women across Ghana. Through her work, numerous initiatives have emerged in the areas of education, health, and women's entrepreneurship.

A political actress in her own right

A woman of strong convictions, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has not hesitated to assert herself on the political scene. In 2012, she founded the National Democratic Party (NDP) after leaving the National Democratic Congress (NDC) , the party created by her husband.

This bold choice illustrated his determination to defend his vision of development and governance, often marked by a more inclusive approach focused on social justice.

A nation in mourning, unanimous tributes

The announcement of her death sparked deep emotion in Ghana. Parliament suspended its sessions to pay tribute to her, saluting the memory of a woman who was "courageous, visionary, and deeply committed to the cause of women."

Many political figures and civil society organizations have also expressed their sadness, recalling her pioneering role in promoting female leadership. Tributes are pouring in on social media, accompanied by testimonies and images retracing her journey.

A lasting legacy

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings will go down in history as a woman of action and conviction , whose voice carried those of many others. Her commitment to women's empowerment had a profound impact on Ghanaian society and continues to inspire a new generation of leaders.

As the nation prepares to pay her official respects, the memory of a strong, charismatic and determined woman continues to resonate throughout Ghana.

"She believed in Ghanaian women before society did," says an activist in Accra.