President John Dramani Mahama has described the passing of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings as a “profound loss” to the nation, praising her as a pioneering leader and champion of women’s empowerment whose legacy will continue to inspire generations.
Delivering the President’s tribute at the state funeral on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Black Star Square in Accra, Senior Presidential Advisor Joyce Bawah Mogtari read President Mahama’s heartfelt message to the thousands gathered.
“Nana Konadu was more than a First Lady. She was a pioneering leader, a champion of women’s empowerment, and a bold trailblazer in our political and social landscape,” the tribute stated.
President Mahama highlighted her transformative work through the 31st December Women’s Movement, which brought literacy, maternal health support, early childhood education and economic opportunities to women and girls, particularly in rural areas.
“Long before these became central themes in our national development agenda, she was already championing them,” he noted.
He described her as assertive, principled and fearless, yet warm, engaging and fiercely protective of her family – a mother, grandmother, sister, friend and mentor “whose clarity, energy and purpose shaped every space she occupied.”
“Her passing is a profound loss—not only to her beloved family, to whom Lordina and I extend our heartfelt condolences—but also to our nation. It marks the closing of an important chapter in Ghana’s political and social history, even as her example continues to inspire generations to come,” President Mahama said.
“She lived a life defined by service, courage and unbroken purpose. Fare thee well, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Ghana will remember you,” President Mahama concluded.