Mortal remains of Nana Konadu interred after solemn state funeral 

Dignitaries from far and near, including First Ladies of Liberia, Cote d’ Ivoire, and Equatorial Guinea, paid their last respect to Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings at the burial service held on Friday at the Black Star Square in Accra. 

The solemn and well-coordinated state funeral celebrated the legacy, courage and resilience of the indomitable figure who impacted many lives as Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady. 

From the arrival of the cortege to the lifting of the casket to the Military Cemetery at Burma Camp for a private burial, the ceremony reflected the elegance and exceptional qualities of the illustrious stateswoman. 

State officials, members of the diplomatic corps, parliamentarians, traditional leaders, security chiefs, political party representatives, and old students were among the dignitaries that were present to mourn the departed former First Lady. 

Sympathisers had filed past the casket amidst biography reading and tributes before the clergy continued with the order of service. 

The Ghana Armed Forces Band provided a comforting ambience as President John Dramani Mahama, Leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), children, family, and representatives of traditional authorities, took turns to lay wreaths. 

Former Presidents of Ghana; John Agyekum Kuffour, and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and his wife, Rebecca, as well as other personalities across the political divide were not left out. 

Members of the 31^st December Women’s Movement, clad in red scarf and black attire, turned up in their numbers to show solidarity. 

President John Dramani Mahama, in his tribute, eulogised Nana Konadu for a life of “service, courage and deep conviction.” 

“…As we bid farewell to Nana Konadu, we celebrate a life richly lived; a live of leadership, advocacy and unbroken purpose… May her legacy continue to guide us towards a more just, inclusive, and equitable Ghana,” he stated. 

Mr Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) General Secretary, described the late Konadu as “a foundational pillar” of the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) and the NDC and “the heartbeat” of a women’s movement that shaped Ghana’s political landscape.” 

“Her work was practical, personal, and transformational…she lived with intention and served the country with unshakable conviction.” 

The National Democratic Party (NDP) hailed the late Founder of the party as “a defender of truth,” emphasising that her vision of transparency, justice and empowerment, would continue to guide its activities. 

Members of the Achimota Old Students Association (1966/67) Year Group, shared fond memories of their departed comrade, highlighting the sporting and music prowess of the astute First Lady. 

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings died on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at age 76. 

Beyond politics and advocacy, she had an abiding love for fashion, music, and the creative arts.  

Her elegance and confidence made her a symbol of grace and cultural pride.  

Born on November 17, 1948, in Cape Coast, to J.O.T. Agyeman and Felicia Agyeman, both of blessed memory, the Ashanti royal grew up steeped in discipline, ambition and leadership.  

She attended Achimota School before studying Arts with a specialisation in Textile Design at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, where she served as Deputy SRC Secretary, later SRC Secretary, and played active roles within the National Union of Ghana Students. 

Her academic pursuits included a diploma in Interior Design from the London College of Arts; a Diploma in Advanced Personnel Management from the Management Development and Productivity Institute in 1979; a Certificate in Development from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration in 1991; and a Senior Fellow Diploma in Policy Studies and Non-Profit Sector Economic Development from Johns Hopkins University in 1994. 

Between 1974 and 1980, she worked with the Union Trading Company in Accra, and later with Nanali Africarts from 1980 to 1984.  

It was during this period that she founded the 31^st December Women’s Movement, which helped redefine the socio-economic empowerment of women across the country. 

In 1977, she married Jerry John Rawlings, then an Airforce Officer who would later become Head of State and President.  

Their union was blessed with four children – Zanetor, Yaa Asantewaa, Amina and Kimathi – and formed a partnership that profoundly influenced Ghana’s political landscape and the advancement of gender equality. 

Source: GNA 

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