Ghanaians from all walks of life gathered solemnly to pay their final respects to Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, former First Lady and a prominent figure in the country’s political history.
The atmosphere was one of reflection, honour, and deep appreciation for her decades of public service.
The state funeral, held in Accra, drew government officials, traditional leaders, diplomats, political party representatives, and ordinary citizens who admired her work and leadership.
Many described her as a courageous advocate for women’s empowerment, a firm voice in national discussions, and a pivotal pillar in Ghana’s democratic development.
During the ceremony, speakers highlighted her contributions through the 31st December Women’s Movement, which championed education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for women and children across the country.
Tributes also recognized her resilience, independence, and influence on Ghanaian politics—qualities that earned her both respect and recognition on the national stage.
Mourners filed past the casket to pay their last respects, with cultural and religious rites offered to honour her memory.
President John Dramani Mahama paying his final respect to the late Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings described her as a towering figure in Ghana’s democratic journey.
He reflected on her decades of public service, activism, and influence in shaping national conversations on governance, women’s rights, and grassroots mobilisation.
In a tribute, the president highlighted Nana Konadu’s resilience and unwavering commitment to national development.
As the nation bids her farewell, many Ghanaians expressed hope that her legacy of empowerment, civic involvement, and dedication to public service will continue to inspire future generations.
The tribute, delivered on his behalf by Senior Presidential Advisor and Special Aide, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, was read during the state funeral held on Friday, November 28, at the Black Star Square.
He prayed for her peaceful rest and emphasised that her legacy would continue to guide Ghana toward a more just and equitable society.
He said “Fare thee well, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Ghana will remember you.”
“Through her inspirational leadership of the 31st December Women’s Movement, she expanded opportunities for women and girls, especially in rural communities where support was most needed. She championed literacy programmes, reproductive and maternal health, and early childhood education, and economic empowerment initiatives long before these became central themes in our national development agenda,” he stated.
Mahama praised her as assertive, principled and unyielding, noting that she never hesitated to push boundaries or stand alone when her convictions required it.
Despite her strong public image, he said she was also warm, engaging and fiercely protective of her family.
He described her as a mother, grandmother, sister, friend and mentor “whose clarity, energy and purpose shaped every space she occupied.”
Her passing represents a significant loss not only to her family but to the entire nation, Mahama added.
“Her passing is a profound loss—not only to her beloved family, to whom Lordina and I extend our heartfelt condolences—but also to our nation. It marks the closing of an important chapter in Ghana’s political and social history, even as her example continues to inspire generations to come,” he noted.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings leaves behind a profound mark on Ghana’s history, remembered not only as a former First Lady but as a transformational leader in her own right.
