Accra, Oct. 23. 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.
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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,” the university said.
“Her pioneering spirit, intellect, and resilience remain a source of pride for KNUST students and alumni. She demonstrated the very ideals we seek to instil in our students—integrity, service, and the courage to lead change.”
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, Many others, and I are a product of her compassion, mentorship, and love,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
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. You will be missed but never forgotten,” he said.
The European Union in Ghana honoured her legacy of service and advocacy for women and the vulnerable, while Madam Simone Giger, Ambassador of Switzerland to Ghana, praised her “determination and lifelong dedication to women’s rights.”
Actress Ama K. Abebrese described her as “one of the strongest and most assertive women I have met. Indeed, a Konadu. May God give her eternal rest.”
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 before studying Art, specialising in Textiles, at KNUST.
She later earned qualifications in Interior Design from the London College of Arts, Advanced Personnel Management from the Management Development and Productivity Institute (1979), and Development Studies from GIMPA (1991). In 1994, she obtained a Senior Fellow Diploma in Policy Studies and Non-Profit Sector Economic Development from Johns Hopkins University, USA.
Between 1974 and 1980, she worked at Union Trading Company in Accra before founding Nanali Africarts. In 1982, she established the 31st December Women’s Movement, which empowered thousands of women nationwide.
She married Air Force 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) and later founded the National Democratic Party (NDP) in 2012.
