Copyright ghanaguardian
The Minority Caucus in Ghana’s Parliament has paid glowing tribute to the late former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, describing her as a fearless reformer who revolutionized the role of the First Lady from a ceremonial post into a forceful institution for national development, social justice, and women’s empowerment. In a heartfelt statement issued on October 24, 2025, the Minority noted that Nana Konadu’s passing marks the end of an era for Ghanaian women and political activism. The Caucus lauded her exceptional leadership and commitment to transforming the socio-political landscape, especially at a time when female participation in public life was minimal. Champion for Women’s Empowerment Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings’ political and social activism dates back to the early years of the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) government, led by her husband, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings. In 1982, she founded the 31st December Women’s Movement (DWM) — an organization that would go on to empower millions of Ghanaian women through skills training, microfinance initiatives, literacy campaigns, and advocacy for girls’ education. The DWM’s community-based approach helped to build schools, daycare centers, and vocational training institutions across Ghana, with a particular focus on marginalized and rural communities. The movement also played a vital role in the campaign for constitutional recognition of gender equality. Architect of Affirmative Action in Ghana’s Constitution One of Nana Konadu’s most significant contributions, according to the Minority’s statement, was her advocacy for the inclusion of the Affirmative Action clause in the 1992 Constitution of Ghana. This legal framework, which emphasizes gender equity in governance and public appointments, remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s democracy. The Minority commended her determination to ensure that women’s voices were not sidelined in national development, stressing that her influence continues to inspire Ghanaian women in politics, business, and civic leadership. A First Lady Beyond Protocol As First Lady from 1981 to 2001, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings redefined her position. What had previously been a symbolic office became an engine for development and advocacy. She used her platform to address issues of health, education, and gender-based inequality. Her programs emphasized maternal and child health, literacy for women, and economic independence for low-income earners. Under her stewardship, the office of the First Lady evolved into an active partner in national development rather than an appendage of the presidency. Breaking Political Barriers In 2012, Nana Konadu made history when she founded the National Democratic Party (NDP), becoming the first Ghanaian woman to establish and lead a political party. Her political ambition reflected her belief that women should not only influence policy from the sidelines but also participate directly in shaping governance and national direction. Though her new party faced electoral challenges, her bold move was hailed by many as a milestone in Ghana’s democratic evolution and a testament to her conviction that leadership knows no gender. Nation Mourns a Trailblazer The Minority extended its condolences to Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Klottey-Korle, and the entire Agyeman-Rawlings family. They acknowledged that her passing is not just a family loss but a national one, as her contributions touched lives far beyond politics. “As First Lady, Nana Konadu transformed her office into a platform for development, social justice, and transformative change. Her courage, intellect, and compassion continue to inspire the next generation of Ghanaian women,” the statement read. The Minority concluded by praying for her eternal rest, celebrating her as a visionary whose work reshaped the nation’s social fabric and strengthened the foundation for gender equality in Ghana. Born in 1948, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was educated at Achimota School and the University of Science and Technology (now KNUST). She married Jerry John Rawlings in 1977 and stood by him through the political turbulence that defined Ghana’s transition from military rule to democracy. Over the decades, she emerged as one of the most influential women in Ghana’s post-independence history — an advocate, a reformer, and a political figure whose name became synonymous with empowerment and progress. Her death, announced on Thursday, has sparked widespread tributes from political figures, women’s groups, and international partners who recognize her lifelong dedication to justice, equity, and national development.
