State Burial for Late Former First Lady
The government of Ghana has announced that the late former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, will be given a state burial on November 28, 2025, at the Independence Square. This announcement was made through a communique released by the Minister for Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.
According to the statement, “The Government of Ghana under the auspices of President John Dramani Mahama will hold a state burial for late former First Lady Mrs Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings on Friday, November 28, 2025 at the Independence Square.” The event is intended to honor her significant contributions to the country’s development, particularly in the field of women’s empowerment.
“The state funeral is in recognition of Mrs. Rawlings invaluable contribution to the advancement of the rights of women and children in Ghana and national development,” it stated.
Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings passed away on October 23, 2025, at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital at Ridge, where she was being treated for an illness. She was 76 years old at the time of her death. Her passing marks the end of a life that was deeply intertwined with the political and social fabric of Ghana.
She joins her husband, Jerry John Rawlings, who died on November 12, 2020, just 20 days before the anniversary of his transition. Their shared legacy continues to influence the nation’s history.
Born on November 17, 1948, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings served as the First Lady of Ghana from June 4, 1979, to September 24, 1979, and again from December 31, 1981, to January 7, 2001. During her tenure, she became a prominent advocate for women’s rights and education, laying the groundwork for future initiatives in these areas.
Her political ambitions extended beyond her role as First Lady. In 2016, she became the first female candidate to run for the presidency in Ghana, forming the National Democratic Party (NDP). Although she received only 0.16% of the votes in the 2020 general election, her campaign marked a significant milestone in Ghanaian politics.
Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings had a complex relationship with the political party founded by her husband, the National Democratic Congress (NDC). She expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s management during her husband’s absence from its activities. Despite this, she held several key positions within the party, including being elected First Vice Chairperson in 2009 and later in 2011.
Her attempt to become the flagbearer of the NDC in 2012 against Prof. JEA Mills did not succeed. However, her efforts to influence the party’s direction were well known, and her disagreements with the NDC remained a topic of discussion in the political arena until her final days.
Throughout her life, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings was a symbol of resilience and dedication. Her contributions to women’s empowerment and national development have left a lasting impact on Ghana. As the nation prepares to honor her memory with a state burial, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.