Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings served Ghana well – Kufour

The late former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was a pivotal character in Ghanaian history, according to former President John Agyekum Kufuor, who also praised her lasting legacy and her enormous contributions to the country.

At the age of 76, the late former President Jerry John Rawlings’ widow died on Thursday, October 23, at the Ridge Hospital in Accra. She led the 31st December Women’s Movement and was Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady. She was a strong supporter of social justice and women’s empowerment.

“She did her best in her own way,” Kufuor stated on Friday, October 24, when visiting Accra to offer condolences to the family. She served Ghana well throughout her life and has lovely children.

“You cannot write Ghana’s history without her name in it. She contributed significantly to the making of Ghana, and her name will forever be etched in granite in our history. So please, do not be sad. The whole of Ghana, and indeed the world, mourns her loss.”

Former President Kufuor recounted his personal encounter with Nana Konadu shortly before her passing.

“I am truly surprised because on Wednesday, I went to church late. When I got there, she was already seated, and my friend was sitting beside her. During the offertory, she came to ask me how I was doing, and I told her I was fine; there was nothing to suggest she was unwell.

“Yesterday, around 10 a.m., I had some visitors, and one of them asked if I had heard what had happened—that Nana Konadu had passed away. I asked how that was possible, because I had seen her yesterday. But God knows best, and I have come to commiserate with you.”

Condolences have been sent from all over Ghana in response to her passing. According to a statement released on October 24, 2025, by His Lordship Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the Acting Chief Justice, she was a lady of “remarkable vision, courage, and conviction” whose life and activities had a lasting impact on Ghana’s social and political landscape.

He emphasized her unwavering support of social justice and gender equality, pointing out that the innumerable Ghanaians she touched would continue to feel the impact of her work.

As the country continues to grieve the loss of a stateswoman whose contributions helped define contemporary Ghana, the family is likely to make funeral arrangements soon.

President John Dramani Mahama has announced three days of national mourning from today, Friday, October 24, to Sunday, October 26, 2025, in remembrance of the late H.E. Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, the former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana.

All government installations, diplomatic missions, and public buildings both domestically and overseas must display their national flags at half-mast during this time.

This is in remembrance of her and in appreciation of her outstanding service to our country. Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings was a dedicated and committed servant of Ghana, especially in the areas of social development, child welfare, and women’s empowerment.

“The Government extends its deepest condolences to the family, her children, and all who mourn this irreplaceable loss. May her soul rest in perfect peace”.

Read the full statement below:

Source: Ghanatodayonline.com