Ghana has been thrown into mourning following the passing of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings in the early hours of Thursday, October 23, 2025.
The 76-year-old former First Lady, known for her lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and social justice, reportedly passed away after a short illness.
Below is a detailed look at what we know so far about her death.
She fell ill on October 23, 2025
According to the family, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings took ill on the morning of Thursday, October 23, 2025.
Family at a press conference indicated that she suddenly felt unwell and required urgent medical attention.
She was admitted to the Ridge Hospital
Following her illness, the former First Lady was rushed to the Ridge Hospital in Accra, where medical professionals attended to her.
She died at Ridge Hospital
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings passed away shortly after being admitted to the hospital, according to the family.
She was 76 years old
At the time of her passing, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was 76 years old.
Government confirms her death
The Government of Ghana officially confirmed her passing through a statement released by the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Thursday, October 23, 2025.
“Government announces with deep regret and profound sorrow the untimely passing of former First Lady and Founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement, Her Excellency Mrs Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, “the statement read.
The government extended its deepest condolences to her immediate family, describing her as a formidable woman whose vision, activism, and leadership significantly advanced the status of women and children in Ghana. It also announced that official arrangements would be communicated in due course.
President Mahama speaks
President John Dramani Mahama was informed of her passing on Thursday afternoon.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony of 37 newly appointed High Court Judges at the Jubilee House, the President paid tribute to the late former First Lady and led the gathering in observing a moment of silence in her memory.
“This afternoon, I received a delegation of the children of our late mother, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, to inform me about her untimely and unfortunate passing. I will ask that we rise and observe a moment’s silence in her memory. May the Almighty God grant her peaceful rest in His bosom,” President Mahama said.
Otumfuo was informed
In accordance with customary tradition, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, was promptly informed of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings’s death, according to Oheneba Akwasi Abeyie, the family head.
The late First Lady had strong ties to the Ashanti Kingdom, and her passing was formally communicated to the traditional authority as a mark of respect.
Family confirms her death
The family of the late former First Lady has officially confirmed her passing.
Speaking to journalists in Accra, Oheneba Akwasi Abeyie, the Akomfuohene of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who doubles as the family head, said the sudden loss deeply saddened the family.
“Earlier this morning, Her Excellency Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings felt unwell and was subsequently admitted to the Ridge Hospital. Unfortunately, she passed away. His Excellency the President was subsequently informed, and Otumfuo was also informed. The President has caused an official statement to be made confirming her death,” he stated.
Oheneba Akwasi Abeyie added that the family would work closely with government officials to plan her funeral and other formalities.
Family requests privacy to mourn
The family has appealed to the public and the media for privacy as they mourn their loss.
They have expressed appreciation for the overwhelming messages of sympathy pouring in from Ghanaians across the world, but emphasised that this is a difficult time for them.
Government will handle all further notices
According to the family, the government will oversee all subsequent announcements related to the late former First Lady’s funeral and national commemorations.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, Ghana’s first President of the Fourth Republic.
Beyond her role as First Lady, she was a pioneer in the fight for women’s empowerment and social development.
She founded the 31st December Women’s Movement, a groundbreaking organisation that promoted gender equality, community development, and economic empowerment for women.
In addition, she was the founder and leader of the National Democratic Party (NDP) and remained a significant voice in Ghana’s political scene long after her husband’s presidency.
AM/SEA
Scenes from Accra Ridge Hospital after news of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings’ death
Kimathi Rawlings and other prominent figures depart residence after brief meeting
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