Ghana has lost a significant figure with the passing of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, the former First Lady, at the age of 76. She was the beloved wife of Jerry John Rawlings, Ghana’s longest-serving leader, who preceded her in death five years ago. Rawlings, a charismatic and sometimes controversial leader, came to power through military coups before being elected president twice in democratic elections.
Tributes have flooded social media for Agyeman-Rawlings, who was not only a political figure but also a dedicated advocate for women’s rights. Her death was confirmed by Ghanaian presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who stated she passed away on Thursday morning following a brief illness. Her family has formally notified President John Mahama, leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) party, which was founded by Jerry Rawlings.
Agyeman-Rawlings herself harbored political ambitions, though her bid for the NDC’s presidential candidacy in 2012 was unsuccessful. During her time as First Lady, she established the 31st December Women’s Movement. This initiative was instrumental in empowering women, particularly in disadvantaged areas, by teaching them skills to earn income and foster community development. The movement’s name commemorates the date of her husband’s second coup in 1981.
Born in November 1948, Agyeman-Rawlings hailed from a middle-class family and grew up in Cape Coast. Her educational path led her to study art and textiles, a path distinct from her husband’s military career. She met Jerry Rawlings while they were both students at the esteemed Achimota School in Accra. Together, they formed a dynamic, albeit polarizing, partnership that left a significant mark on Ghana.
The impact of the 31st December Women’s Movement extended beyond community empowerment, influencing national policy. Agyeman-Rawlings played a crucial role in the passage of legislation in 1989 that secured inheritance rights for women and children. Her contributions were also vital in embedding provisions for gender equality within Ghana’s 1992 constitution, which marked the nation’s return to multiparty democracy.
In recognition of her passing, Ghana’s parliament has adjourned, and the nation prepares to mourn a prominent political figure who championed the inclusion and rights of women in public life.