Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has paid an emotional tribute to the late Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, describing her as a trailblazer whose influence on women’s empowerment continues to shape Ghana’s history.
In a heartfelt tribute, the former president celebrated the former first lady as a transformational figure who redefined the role of women in public life.
“Undoubtedly one of the most consequential Ghanaian women of her generation, Her Excellency Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady, became the embodiment of the women’s struggle for self-empowerment,” he said.
Akufo-Addo recounted how Nana Konadu fearlessly stepped into national activism during the politically turbulent era of the June 4 Uprising and the 31st December Revolution. He noted that she seized the moment to build a formidable platform for women.
“Bold, dynamic, and eloquent, she used the opportunity provided by her late husband, Jerry John Rawlings’ starring role in the tumultuous events… to found the 31st December Women’s Movement and assume unashamedly the path of foremost advocate of women’s rights and women’s empowerment initiatives in our country.”
According to him, Nana Konadu’s influence grew far beyond Ghana’s borders, eventually securing her a place among the continent’s most recognised female figures.
Highlighting her continental stature, he recalled appointing her in 2018 to lead Ghana’s delegation to the funeral of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. “She was not a member or sympathiser of my government, but I believed, as I still do, that she was the most appropriate Ghanaian woman to undertake that assignment.”
Akufo-Addo acknowledged that—like many historical figures—she attracted controversy but stressed that her legacy remains indisputable.
“Even though I was neither a partisan nor a supporter of the 31st December Revolution, I had little hesitation in acknowledging and recognising the positive impact the 31st December Women’s Movement had on the progress of Ghanaian women. Her place in history is firmly grounded.”
He described her as vibrant and engaging, recalling their personal interactions with fondness.
“She was a vivacious, sparkling woman whose company and wit I enjoyed very much… We will miss her very much.”
The former president extended condolences to the family:
“We extend our deepest condolences to her children, Zanetor, Yaa Asantewaa, Amina, and Kimathi; to her wider family; and to the entire Ghanaian nation on the loss of this vibrant woman.”
He offered a prayer for her peaceful rest
“May God bless her and give her soul a peaceful place of abode in His Bosom until the Last Day of the Resurrection, when we shall all meet again. Amen.”
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