Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has reportedly passed away at the Ridge Hospital in Accra at the age of 76, according to multiple media sources.
The wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings had been unwell for some time and was under close medical supervision before her passing. Neither her family nor hospital authorities have yet issued an official statement, leaving details surrounding her death unclear.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings served as Ghana’s First Lady from 1981 to 2001, remaining a formidable presence in Ghanaian politics and social advocacy. She was widely recognized for her leadership in championing women’s rights and empowering communities across the country.
In 1982, she founded the 31st December Women’s Movement (DWM) — a pioneering initiative dedicated to empowering Ghanaian women through entrepreneurship, education, and political participation. The movement became one of the most impactful social organizations in the country, transforming lives and shaping the conversation around women’s empowerment.
Later in her career, Nana Konadu founded and led the National Democratic Party (NDP), further cementing her position as one of Ghana’s most influential political figures.
Her last public appearance was on September 18, 2025, when she attended the final funeral rites of the Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, accompanied by her children.
The passing of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings marks the end of an era in Ghana’s political and social history. Her decades of public service, courage, and advocacy for women’s rights have left an indelible mark on the nation.
She will be remembered as a trailblazer, a visionary, and a voice for Ghanaian women, whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
