The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the family of the late former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings have unveiled her tomb at the Military Cemetery in Accra, marking the first anniversary of her death and honouring her contributions to Ghana’s public life.
The ceremony, held on Friday, October 23, 2026, brought together family members, military representatives and other dignitaries to pay tribute to the former First Lady, who died on October 23, 2025, at the age of 76.
The event provided an opportunity to reflect on Nana Konadu’s life, her involvement in Ghanaian politics and her longstanding advocacy for women’s empowerment and social development.
Wreaths were laid in her honour on behalf of the Government and people of Ghana, her surviving children and family, and the 31st December Women’s Movement, the organisation she founded to promote women’s participation in national development.
The participation of the Ghana Armed Forces reflected the military’s role in the commemorative event and the family’s efforts to preserve the memory of the late First Lady.
Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey, spoke on behalf of the family during the ceremony. She expressed appreciation to Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the Military High Command and others who supported the arrangements for the tomb unveiling.
She also reaffirmed the family’s commitment to preserving her mother’s legacy and ensuring that her contributions to Ghanaian society continue to be remembered.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was married to former President Jerry John Rawlings, who led Ghana from 1981 to 2001, including a period as head of state under military rule and later as a democratically elected president.
During her years in public life, she became widely associated with efforts to advance women’s empowerment and increase their participation in political, economic and social activities.
One of her most significant initiatives was the establishment of the 31st December Women’s Movement, which mobilised women and promoted their involvement in community development and national affairs. The movement became an important part of her public identity and advocacy work.
Beyond her activities as First Lady, Nana Konadu also pursued an independent political career. She founded the National Democratic Party (NDP), extending her involvement in Ghana’s political landscape beyond her role alongside her husband.
Her public life attracted both support and debate, but her influence on discussions about women’s participation in politics and development remained a notable part of her legacy.
The tomb-unveiling ceremony offered the family and other participants an opportunity to commemorate her life and reflect on the causes she championed. It also highlighted the role of remembrance ceremonies in preserving the contributions of individuals who have played significant roles in the country’s history.
As the family continues to honour her memory, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings remains associated with decades of advocacy, political engagement and efforts to expand opportunities for women in Ghana.
Source: Thepressradio.com
