By Francis Kobena Tandoh
Thousands of mourners gathered at the Independence Square, also called Black Star Square, in Accra, the national capital, to bid farewell to former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings in a solemn state funeral on Friday.
The ceremony gathered a wide cross-section of people of all walks of life, including political leaders, diplomats, traditional authorities, members of civil society, and thousands of mourners—all united to honor her contributions.
The program included tributes from top officials, including President John Dramani Mahama, family members, grandchildren, and others who spoke of the deep impact she had on Ghana as a leader, advocate, and matriarch.
Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings was Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady and a pioneering force in women’s empowerment, child welfare, grassroots social development, and gender equality.
She founded the 31st December Women’s Movement—a grassroots organization credited with establishing hundreds of preschools, promoting girls’ education, advancing women’s economic empowerment, and improving child welfare across Ghana.
Her influence extended beyond the traditional First Lady role as she transformed it into a platform for active social advocacy, giving voice to issues of women, children, and rural community development.
She passed on to glory on October 23, 2025, at age 76 at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, or Ridge Hospital, in Accra. Her death triggered a wave of mourning across the West African country.
In the days leading up to the state funeral, the family held a requiem mass and issued invitations to the public—stressing there was no special funeral cloth; mourners were asked to attend in black.
During the funeral, a mix of official honors, heartfelt tributes, and spontaneous public sorrow underscored how deeply she was respected as a national figure—many described her as “a beacon of women’s empowerment,” “a true national treasure,” and “an indomitable spirit.” Enditem
Source: Ghana Eye Report
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