Accra, Oct. 24, GNA – Tributes have poured in following the passing of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings on Thursday, October 23, 2025.
Government officials, diplomats, political figures, institutions, and personalities from the arts and entertainment industry have extended condolences to the bereaved family through various social media posts.
Widely described as “a true national icon” and “an indomitable spirit,” Nana Konadu was celebrated for her lifelong advocacy for women’s inclusion and empowerment.
In a statement, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) hailed her as “an illustrious alumna” and “one of Ghana’s most remarkable women.”
“…Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings redefined the role of women in leadership, advocating tirelessly for social transformation and the inclusion of women in governance and national development.
“Her pioneering spirit, intellect, and resilience remain a source of pride for KNUST students and the alumni community. She demonstrated the very ideals we seek to instil in our students—integrity, service, and the courage to lead change.
“The entire University community, management, staff, and the Global Alumni Association extend their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, Asanteman, her children, and the people of Ghana,” the statement read.
Dr Peter Boamah Otukunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness, described her as “more than a mother.”
“She mentored and nurtured my political journey from my school days. Myself and many others are a product of her compassion, mentorship and love,” he wrote in a post on X.
Former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo also extended condolences to the family and friends of the late Mrs. Rawlings.
Nana Kwame Bediako, Leader of the New Force party, noted that her legacy “will live on, in her daughters” and the lives she impacted.
“…I saw you two weeks ago, radiant as ever. It’s hard to believe you’re gone, but I know you’re resting in divine peace…May your soul find eternal rest in the arms of the Almighty. You will be missed, but never forgotten,” he wrote.
The European Union in Ghana honoured her legacy of service and advocacy for women and the vulnerable, while Madam Simone Gider, Ambassador of Switzerland to Ghana, expressed admiration for her determination and dedication to women’s rights.
Actress Ama K. Abebrese stated: “She is one of the strongest and assertive women I have met. Indeed a Konadu. May God give her eternal rest. Rest in Peace.”
Media personality Israel Laryea wrote: “Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings will definitely be remembered for the impact she made with the 31st December Women’s Movement…This is sad news. But if there’s anything like life thereafter, I believe she gets to join Papa J.”
Born on November 17, 1948, in Cape Coast to the late J.O.T. Agyeman and his wife, Nana Konadu began her education at Achimota School and later studied Art with a specialisation in Textiles at KNUST.
She served as Deputy SRC Secretary and later SRC Secretary at KNUST, and held roles within the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS).
She earned an Interior Design diploma from the London College of Arts, a Diploma in Advanced Personnel Management from the Management Development and Productivity Institute in 1979, and a Certificate in Development from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration in 1991.
In 1994, she enrolled at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, USA, earning a Senior Fellow Diploma in Policy Studies and Non-Profit Sector Economic Development.
Between 1974 and 1980, she worked at Union Trading Company in Accra, and later at Nanali Africarts from 1980 to 1984.
During this period, she founded the 31st December Women’s Movement, an NGO focused on women’s empowerment.
She married Airforce Officer Jerry John Rawlings in 1977, and together they had four children: Ezenator, Yaa Asantewaa, Amina, and Kimathi.
In 2009, she was elected First Vice Chairperson of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). She later contested the party’s flagbearership in 2011 but lost to President John Evans Atta Mills.
Following the contest, she left the NDC and founded the National Democratic Party in October 2012.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey