Ghana bids farewell today to former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings as the nation gathers at Black Star Square for her state funeral, marking the final journey of one of the country’s most influential women.
The ceremony begins at 8 a.m. and is expected to draw government officials, diplomats, traditional authorities, political leaders and thousands of citizens.
The state funeral, formally announced earlier by the Ministry of Government Communications, reflects government’s recognition of her decades of work in women’s empowerment, child welfare and national development.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings passed away on October 23, 2025, after a short illness. Born in 1948, she was educated at Achimota School and later at KNUST, where she studied Art with a focus on Textiles, before pursuing Interior Design studies in London.
As First Lady, she founded the 31st December Women’s Movement, a nationwide organisation that drove literacy programmes, supported small businesses and fought for inheritance and gender rights—cementing her status as a powerful voice for women and children.
She remained politically active long after leaving office, serving as NDC Vice Chair before later forming the National Democratic Party and contesting the 2016 elections.
She was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings and mother of four—Zanetor, Yaa Asantewaa, Amina and Kimathi.
Today’s state-assisted burial brings the country together to honour her public service, activism and enduring impact on Ghana’s social and political landscape as she is laid to rest.
