Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of political leadership and women’s empowerment in Ghana.
Born on November 17, 1948, in Cape Coast, she was a prominent figure in Ghanaian politics and society for decades.
Nana Konadu was First Lady during two periods: briefly in 1979 and then from 1981 to 2001 while her late husband, Jerry John Rawlings, served as head of state and later as elected president. She was a champion for women’s rights, leading the 31st December Women’s Movement, an organisation that mobilised millions of women across Ghana to promote social development, education, and political participation.
Educated at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and the London College of Arts, Nana Konadu also pursued further studies in management and development both in Ghana and abroad. She was deeply involved in efforts to improve women’s socio-economic status, advocating for laws such as the Intestate Succession Law, which protected women’s inheritance rights.
In 2016, she made history as the first woman to run for president in Ghana, leading the National Democratic Party. Although she did not win, her candidacy marked a significant milestone for women in Ghanaian politics.
Throughout her life, Nana Konadu worked tirelessly to empower women, promote education, and support community development. Her leadership in politics and civil society has left a lasting impact on Ghana’s social and political landscape. Her passing is mourned by many across the country and beyond. Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
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