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Irene Naa Torshie Addo, an advocate for women and children’s right, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former First Lady of Ghana, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, following news of her passing. In a statement on October 25, 2025, Naa Torshie Addo described Nana Konadu as “one of Ghana’s most courageous daughters and transformative leaders”, noting that her passing represents not only a personal loss to many but also a national tragedy. “Her loss is not only personal to many of us who admired her strength, but also national, for Ghana has lost one of its most courageous daughters and transformative leaders,” she said. Reflecting on the legacy of the late First Lady, Naa Torshie Addo highlighted the immense contributions Nana Konadu made through the 31st December Women’s Movement, an initiative that revolutionized women’s empowerment in Ghana. Crying More than the Bereaved: Woman thrown out of Nana Konadu’s house for crying out loudly She credited the movement with transforming “passion into policy” by creating opportunities for women and children across the country. Through initiatives that built schools, skills training centres and cooperatives, Nana Konadu gave practical meaning to empowerment and helped countless rural women achieve economic independence. “She opened spaces for rural women to learn, work and lead. She made empowerment practical by building schools, skills centres, and cooperatives that gave women and children real choices and opportunities,” Naa Torshie Addo noted. Naa Torshie Addo also spoke about the lessons she drew from Nana Konadu’s example, emphasising that leadership, as exemplified by the former First Lady, is earned through conviction, sacrifice and service not inherited. “From her, I learnt that leadership demands courage the courage to stand for what is right, to speak when silence is convenient and to act when others hesitate,” she said. She described the late Nana Konadu as “a phenomenon whose voice carried strength, clarity, and an unyielding belief in Ghana’s potential.” Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings and played a prominent role in Ghanaian politics and social advocacy. She was widely recognised for her leadership in championing women’s rights, community development, and economic empowerment across the country through her work with the 31st December Women’s Movement. Dr Zanetor departs Jubilee House after notifying government of mother’s passing Scenes from Accra Ridge Hospital after news of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings’ death The wait is over! The GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025 is officially launched. Let’s Celebrate impact, innovation and excellence across Ghana. Who deserves to be honoured this year? Nominate now 👉 https://ghanaweb.com/ghanaexcellenceawards/nominate
