Mahama pays tribute to Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings at state funeral

President John Dramani Mahama has paid tribute to former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, describing her as “a truly remarkable woman” and “a towering national figure whose influence will resonate for generations.”

The tribute was delivered on the President’s behalf by his Special Aide and Presidential Adviser, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, at the final funeral service held at the Black Stars Square in Accra on Tuesday.

President Mahama highlighted Nana Konadu’s leadership as First Lady, crediting her with driving social change through the 31st December Women’s Movement, where she championed literacy, maternal health and early childhood education.

He said her efforts to promote economic empowerment among women “laid the groundwork for many of the gender-sensitive policies and social interventions that Ghana benefits from today.”

Paying further tribute, President Mahama said Nana Konadu’s influence went far beyond her tenure as First Lady.

“Nana Konadu was far more than a former first lady. She was a pioneering leader, an unwavering champion of women’s empowerment, a trailblazer in our political landscape, and a deeply committed patriot. Her life story is one defined by boldness: boldness to speak, to challenge, to lead, and to stand resolutely for what she believed was right for Ghana.”

The President described her as a trailblazer who reshaped the role of First Lady, saying she was “bold in speech, bold in leadership, and unafraid to challenge norms.” Although she was widely seen as firm in public, he said she was also warm, humorous, and deeply committed to her family.

Mr Mahama said her dedicated advocacy for women and young people had left a lasting mark on the nation.

“She believed passionately in the transformative power of women and the potential of young people, and she dedicated her voice and influence to help uplift them.”

The President described her death as “a profound loss to the nation” and said her legacy would continue to shape the country’s future.

“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 history, our social history, even as her example continues to inspire generations to come.”

“We celebrate a life of leadership, advocacy, and unbroken purpose. Fare thee well, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings,” the President added.

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, Ghana’s former First Lady and a prominent advocate for women’s empowerment, died on Sunday after a short illness on 23 October 2025, according to family sources.

Nana Konadu served as First Lady from 1981 to 2001 and was the founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement, which championed women’s economic empowerment, maternal health and education.

She was also a trailblazer in Ghanaian politics, becoming the first woman to contest the presidential primaries of a major political party in the country.