Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings Passes Away at 76

Ghana is mourning the passing of Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, former First Lady and one of the nation’s most influential female figures. She passed away early Thursday morning 23rd October, 2025 at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge Hospital) at the age of 76.

Government of Ghana Officially announced the passing of the former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings

Also Read, The Shatta Wale Phenomenon: How Ghana’s Biggest Star Redefined Brand Loyalty in Africa

A Life of Service and Legacy

Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings was not just Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady; she was a pioneering advocate for women’s empowerment and political participation. Married to the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, she served as First Lady from June 4, 1979, to September 24, 1979, during the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC) era, and again from December 31, 1981, to January 6, 2001, spanning both the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) and the democratic Fourth Republic.

Her influence extended far beyond ceremonial duties; she became a symbol of resilience and purpose for Ghanaian women and a strong voice for gender equality across Africa.

Champion for Women and Author of ‘It Takes a Woman’

In November 2018, Nana Konadu launched her groundbreaking biography, “It Takes a Woman,” a deeply personal and historical account of her political and social journey. The 331-page book highlighted her experiences from her early years in 1948 through to her activism in the late 1970s, emphasizing her lifelong dedication to women’s empowerment.

At the book launch, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, then Vice President of Ghana, praised her as a “true example of a woman resolute in her fight for emancipation without dividing men and women.”
He noted that the book “pulled no punches” in addressing issues of gender inequality, discrimination, and social injustice; all while offering lessons on leadership and nation-building.

A Visionary Voice for African Documentation and Identity

Known for her eloquence and intellect, Nana Konadu consistently called for Africans to document their own histories. She believed that Africa’s future depended on preserving authentic stories and empowering future generations through knowledge.

“Africa has everything: minerals, forests, oil, and intellectual capacity,” she said. “But we must strengthen our ability to document and analyze our own history. If we don’t, others will do it for us.”

Her advocacy for education, reading culture, and historical preservation became one of her enduring legacies.

A Trailblazer in Ghanaian Politics

Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings made history in 2016 as the first woman to run for President of Ghana, representing the National Democratic Party (NDP); a political movement she founded to promote inclusivity and women’s leadership in governance.

Her political courage inspired countless young women across Ghana and Africa to pursue leadership roles, challenging the gender barriers in national politics.

Honoring Her Legacy

As the nation reflects on her passing, tributes continue to pour in from political leaders, women’s groups, and global figures who admired her boldness, intellect, and unwavering service to Ghana.
Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings will forever be remembered as a pillar of modern Ghanaian democracy, a voice for women’s empowerment, and a symbol of African resilience.

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FAQs

1. Who was Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings?
She was Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady and wife of the late President Jerry John Rawlings. She was a leading advocate for women’s rights and political participation.

2. When did Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings die?
She passed away on October 23, 2025, at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge Hospital).

3. How old was she when she died?
She was 76 years old.

4. What book did she author?
She authored “It Takes a Woman”, a biography that details her political journey and commitment to women’s empowerment.

5. Was Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings involved in politics?
Yes, she founded the National Democratic Party (NDP) and became the first woman to contest for President of Ghana in 2016.

6. What is her legacy?
Her legacy lies in her lifelong fight for gender equality, education, and political empowerment for women in Ghana and Africa.

Also Read, The Shatta Wale Phenomenon: How Ghana’s Biggest Star Redefined Brand Loyalty in Africa

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