Accra, Ghana — Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has paid tribute to the late former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, hailing her as one of the most influential Ghanaian women of her generation whose contributions to national development and women’s empowerment are firmly etched in history.
In a written statement, Akufo-Addo described Nana Konadu as a central figure in Ghana’s struggle for women’s self-empowerment, noting that her dynamism, courage, and eloquence helped shape advocacy for women’s rights across the country.
He said she became a symbol of that struggle through her activism and leadership.
He highlighted her founding of the 31st December Women’s Movement, which he described as one of the most impactful women-focused organisations in Ghana, and credited her with amplifying the voices of women nationwide.
Akufo-Addo also recalled that her influence extended beyond Ghana, elevating her to prominence as one of Africa’s best-known women leaders.
He recounted appointing her in 2018, during his presidency, to lead Ghana’s delegation to South Africa for the funeral of anti-apartheid icon Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, saying she was the most fitting choice for the role.
“Her activism struck a chord beyond the borders of Ghana,” he noted.
Describing her as a “vivacious, sparkling woman,” Akufo-Addo said he and his wife, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, enjoyed warm and cordial relations with Nana Konadu and her husband, the late former President Jerry John Rawlings.
He extended his condolences to the Rawlings family, particularly their children — Zanetor, Yaa Asantewaa, Amina, and Kimathi urging them to take comfort in the meaningful life she lived and the enduring legacy she leaves behind.
Akufo-Addo concluded with a prayer for her peaceful rest, asking God to grant her soul eternal peace until the day of resurrection.
