Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings: Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady who championed women’s voices
The passing of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, Ghana’s former First Lady, has left a void in the nation’s political and social landscape.
As a trailblazer for women’s empowerment and a champion of social justice, she dedicated her life to uplifting the marginalised and promoting equality.
Born on November 17, 1948, in Cape Coast, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was a force to be reckoned with in Ghanaian politics. She served as First Lady from 1979 and later from 1981 to 2001, during her late husband Jerry John Rawlings’ administrations.
However, her impact extended far beyond her role as First Lady, as until her demise, she continued to advocate for women’s empowerment in all sectors, but with much focus on agriculture.
Below are some facts about the late Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings
- Early Life and Education
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was raised in a family that valued education. She attended Ghana International School and later moved to Achimota School.
She went on to study Art and Textiles at the University of Science and Technology, where she served as a student leader of her hall of residence, Africa Hall. In 1975, she earned a diploma in Interior Design from the London College of Arts.
She further pursued her education over the next couple of decades, acquiring a diploma in Advanced Personnel Management from Ghana’s Management Development and Productivity Institute in 1979, and a certificate in Development from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration in 1991.
She also took courses at Johns Hopkins University and the Institute for Policy Studies in Baltimore, USA, and received a certificate from a Fellows Program in Philanthropy and Non-Profit Organisations.
- Marriage and Family
She got married to the late former President Jerry John Rawlings in 1979, and they had four children together. Her family life was marked by her strong personality and commitment to her children and community.
- Role in the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC)
When her husband seized power in 1981, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings played an active role in the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) regime. She championed social welfare and women’s rights, using her platform to promote positive change.
- Founding of the 31st December Women’s Movement
In 1982, she founded the 31st December Women’s Movement (DWM), an organisation dedicated to empowering women and promoting their participation in governance. Under her leadership, the DWM became a powerful force in Ghanaian politics.
She described it as a “broad-based, development-oriented non-governmental organisation that aspires to achieve these objectives through the effective mobilisation of women.”
In addition, her movement, two million strong, set up more than 870 pre-schools in Ghana and worked actively to promote child development and family planning.
- Women’s Empowerment
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was a fierce advocate for women’s rights and empowerment.
She worked tirelessly to promote women’s participation in decision-making processes and to address issues affecting women in Ghana.
- Education Initiatives
She was instrumental in establishing several educational institutions, including schools and vocational training centres.
Her efforts aimed to provide access to quality education for disadvantaged children and women.
- Political Career
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was a trailblazer in Ghanaian politics.
She served as First Lady of Ghana from 4 June 1979 to 24 September 1979 and again from 31 December 1981 to 7 January 2001.
In 2016, she became the first woman to run for President of Ghana. In 2018, she launched her book titled ‘It Takes a Woman’.
- Independent Political Ambition
Her independent political ambition was evident in her decision to challenge the late President John Atta Mills for the NDC flagbearership in 2011.
This move showcased her courage and conviction in pursuing her goals.
- Philanthropic Work
Beyond politics, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was dedicated to philanthropic work.
She supported various charitable causes, focusing on education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment.
- Awards
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has received numerous awards for her work in women’s empowerment and public service, including a 2024 Ghana Women of the Year Honours Lifetime Achievement Award, a 2013 Peristrofi World Honourary International Award, and a 1995 honorary doctorate in Social Science from Lincoln University.
Other recognitions include an award from Nigeria in 2004, the European Market (EMRC) award in 2001, and the Ghana Excellence Award in 1999.
Ghana Women of the Year Honours 2024: Lifetime Achievement Award for her dedication to equality, justice, and the upliftment of women and children.
Peristrofi World Honourary International Awards 2013: Awarded “Honourary Woman of the Moment” and “Ambassador of Woman into Politics in West Africa”.
Nigeria Award 2004: Received an award for her effective role in emancipating women.
European Market (EMRC) Award 2001: Recognised for her work in the empowerment of women and children’s education.
Ghana Excellence Award 1999: Received the Excellence Award.
Soka Women’s College Award 1997: Honoured in Japan for her work in female emancipation and empowerment.
Honorary Doctorate Degree from Lincoln University: Received an honorary degree in Social Science in 1995 for her work in women’s empowerment.
RTP Awards 2017: Received an honorary award for her impact on society.
Peristrofi Masters Theology International: Awarded an Honorary Emeritus Fellowship in 2011.
- Legacy
Her legacy extends beyond her political career. She inspired a generation of Ghanaians, particularly women, to demand their rightful place in society. Her contributions to women’s empowerment, education, and social justice will continue to inspire future generations.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings’ life was indeed a testament to her strength, resilience, and dedication to public service. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have on society.