Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings has passed away

It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings, former First Lady of Ghana. She died on 23 October 2025 at the Ridge Hospital in Accra at the age of 70. 

Early life and rise

Nana Konadu was born on 17 November 1948 in Cape Coast, Ghana.  She was educated at the Ghana International School and Achimota School, then pursued interior design and personnel management studies, including at the London College of Arts and the Institute for Policy Studies at Johns Hopkins University.  She married former President Jerry John Rawlings in 1977, and later served as First Lady during his terms: from 4 June 1979 to 24 September 1979, and from 31 December 1981 to 7 January 2001. 

Contributions and legacy

During her tenure as First Lady, Nana Konadu was known for her work in women’s empowerment. She led the 31st December Women’s Movement and championed early childhood education, family planning, and mobilising women across Ghana.  In 2016, she became the first woman in Ghana to run for president. 

Reaction & next steps

News of her death has stirred an outpouring of tributes across the country. The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, among others, has expressed condolences.  Details of her funeral and final rites are expected to be announced by the family in due course. 

Why her passing matters

Nana Konadu’s death marks the end of a significant era in Ghanaian public life. She was not only the nation’s First Lady for two decades but also a pioneer in advocating for women’s political participation and social welfare. Her impact on policy, education and empowerment initiatives will be remembered.

What to watch

• Announcement of the funeral date and national observances.
• Tributes from political, traditional and civil society leaders.
• Reflection on her legacy and how her initiatives will continue.

We at Nsemgh extend our heartfelt condolences to the Rawlings family, the Ghanaian nation, and all whose lives she touched. May her soul rest in peace.

— Nsemgh Editorial Team