A heavy air of sorrow hangs over the Black Star Square today, November 28, as thousands turn out for the State Funeral of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Security and protocol teams completed preparations on Thursday to deliver a ceremony befitting her national influence and royal roots.
Government officials, politicians, diplomats, lawmakers, traditional rulers, gender activists, religious leaders, and mourners nationwide are in attendance.
A Requiem Mass held on Wednesday, November 26, at the Accra Ridge Church ushered in the final funeral rites, with tributes and prayers honouring Nana Konadu’s lasting contributions to Ghana. The family has thanked Ghanaians for their immense support since her passing on October 23, 2025.
As founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement, Nana Konadu is remembered as a trailblazer whose activism reshaped Ghana’s gender equality and social development efforts. Tributes have poured in, honoring her as “a national treasure,” “an indomitable spirit,” and “a beacon of women’s empowerment.” She was well-known for her passionate love of dancing, music, fashion, and the creative arts in addition to her civic work. She became an enduring emblem of cultural pride due to her grace and self-assurance.
Born on November 17, 1948, in Cape Coast, Nana Konadu was raised by J.O.T. and Felicia Agyeman in a home that instilled discipline and ambition. She attended Achimota School and later studied Arts with a Textile Design focus at KNUST, where she rose from Deputy SRC Secretary to SRC Secretary and took part in activities of the National Union of Ghana Students.
She earned qualifications from several institutions, including a diploma in Interior Design from the London College of Arts, an Advanced Personnel Management diploma from MDPI (1979), a Development Certificate from GIMPA (1991), and a Senior Fellow Diploma from Johns Hopkins University (1994).
Nana Konadu worked at the Union Trading Company between 1974 and 1980 and later at Nanali Africarts until 1984. During this time, she founded the 31st December Women’s Movement, which became instrumental in driving women’s empowerment nationwide.
She married Jerry John Rawlings in 1977, long before he became Head of State and President. The couple had four children — Zanetor, Yaa Asantewaa, Amina and Kimathi — and together played a major role in Ghana’s political and gender equality journey.
On Friday, the calm at Black Star Square will symbolise the nation’s respect for a woman whose legacy continues to resonate.
