Remembering Nana Konadu Rawlings: A Legacy of Empowerment and Advocacy

Tue Dec 09 2025 20:26:44 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The passing of Ghana's former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, marks the end of an era. Celebrated for her dedication to women's rights and community empowerment, Rawlings leaves behind a powerful legacy.

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, former First Lady of Ghana and an advocate for women's rights, has passed away at 76. She was a significant political figure and the widow of Ghana’s longest-serving leader, Jerry John Rawlings. Known for founding the 31st December Women's Movement, she championed women's empowerment and influenced gender equality legislation in Ghana. Tributes have poured in on social media as the nation mourns her death.

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, Ghana's former First Lady, has died at the age of 76, leaving behind an impactful legacy of advocacy and empowerment.

Agyeman-Rawlings, who was the widow of Jerry John Rawlings, Ghana's longest-serving leader, passed after a brief illness, as confirmed by presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu. Social media is flooded with tributes celebrating her contributions to Ghanaian society.

The former First Lady had notable political aspirations and was a prominent member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), a party founded by her husband. She notably lost her bid to become the party's presidential candidate in 2012.

Her legacy includes the formation of the 31st December Women's Movement, which aimed to empower women, particularly in impoverished areas, guiding them on financial independence and community development, a movement officially recognized in connection with the date of her husband's second coup in 1981.

Born in November 1948 into a middle-class family in Cape Coast, Agyeman-Rawlings had an education that positioned her as a unique figure during her husband’s regime. Unlike him, she pursued a university degree in art and textiles, making her an important advisor and supporter as he rose to power following their marriage.

The dynamic couple, known for their charisma, significantly influenced Ghana’s political landscape. Agyeman-Rawlings was integral in shaping laws enhancing women's rights, including one in 1989 securing inheritance rights and contributions to gender equality provisions in Ghana's 1992 constitution.

As the nation mourns, Ghana's parliament has adjourned to honor Agyeman-Rawlings, a beloved and influential advocate for women's place in politics. Her remarkable journey serves as an enduring reminder of the power of resilience and advocacy.