Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was a bold and visionary leader who dedicated her life to empowering women, advancing social justice, and shaping Ghana’s political history.
- Full Name: Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings
- Date of Birth: November 17, 1948
- Place of Birth: Cape Coast, Central Region, Ghana
Education:
- Ghana International School
- Achimota School – where she met Jerry John Rawlings
- University of Science and Technology (now KNUST) – studied Art and Textiles
- London College of Arts – Diploma in Interior Design
- Additional studies at GIMPA, Johns Hopkins University, and the Institute for Policy Studies, USA
Public Life:
- First Lady of Ghana: 1979 and 1981–2001
- Founder and President of the 31st December Women’s Movement (1982)
- Advocate for women’s empowerment, child development, and family welfare
- Instrumental in promoting the Intestate Succession Law and women’s participation in governance
Political Career:
- First woman to run for President of Ghana (2016) under the National Democratic Party (NDP)
- Continued political engagement and advocacy for social change
Personal Life:
- Married to former President Jerry John Rawlings (1977–2020)
- Mother of four: Zanetor, Yaa Asantewaa, Amina, and Kimathi
Legacy:
- Remembered as a bold, visionary leader
- A trailblazer for women’s rights and empowerment in Ghana
- Her work continues to inspire generations of women leaders
By Ebenezer Madugu
