By Ruth Serwaa Asare
The Government of Ghana, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, has announced plans to hold a state funeral for the late Former First Lady, Mrs. Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, one of the most influential figures in Ghana’s political and social history.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Government Communications and signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP, Spokesperson to the President, the funeral will take place on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Independence Square in Accra.
The statement explained that the state funeral is being organized in recognition of Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings’ immense and selfless contributions to the advancement of women’s and children’s rights in Ghana, as well as her pivotal role in promoting national development.
Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, served as Ghana’s First Lady from 1981 to 2001. During that period, she became a strong voice for women’s empowerment and founded the 31st December Women’s Movement, an organization that championed women’s participation in governance, education, and economic independence.
Her commitment to gender equality and social justice earned her both national and international recognition. Through her advocacy, many women across the country benefited from initiatives that provided access to skills training, healthcare, and education leaving a lasting impact on communities across Ghana.
The government’s decision to accord her a state funeral, the statement noted, reflects the country’s deep appreciation for her legacy and her decades of dedication to public service.
“The state funeral is in recognition of Mrs. Rawlings’ invaluable contributions to the advancement of the rights of women and children in Ghana, and national development,” the statement read.
The ceremony at the Independence Square is expected to attract dignitaries, state officials, political leaders, diplomats, and representatives from women’s groups and civil society organizations who have been inspired by her work and leadership.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings will be remembered as a bold, visionary, and pioneering woman whose passion for service shaped Ghana’s social and political landscape for more than four decades.
