The family of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has formally notified Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, of her passing, signalling the start of funeral and mourning protocols in accordance with both national and traditional norms.
On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, the Rawlings family conveyed the sad news of Nana Konadu’s death to the Asantehene, recognising the respected role his office plays in Ghana’s cultural and chieftaincy landscape.
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The notification marks the beginning of the traditional processes and consultations required when a figure of national significance passes.
Nation in mourning
Nana Konadu, aged 76, died in Accra at the Ridge Hospital, Greater Accra Regional Hospital.
Her passing has prompted tributes from across Ghana’s political and social spectrum. Her contributions as First Lady, women’s rights advocate, and political actor were widely praised.
Legacy of a trailblazer
Born on 17 November 1948, Nana Konadu served as First Lady of Ghana under her husband, former President Jerry John Rawlings, both during military and democratic administrations.
She founded the 31st December Women’s Movement and later contested the presidency, becoming the first woman to do so in Ghana.
What next?
With the formal notification to the Asantehene completed, the Rawlings family and national authorities are expected to coordinate the funeral arrangements.
As is customary, there will be meetings between traditional authorities, family elders and state representatives to determine the specific rites, timing, and honour to be accorded.
The formal notification ensures that the relevant traditional channels are respected, reinforcing the link between national mourning and customary observances.
State burial
President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the state would give Konadu the full honours that she deserves as a former First Lady and mother of the nation.
Mahama said Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings set a record in the country as the longest serving First Lady for 19 solid years, during which she took women’s empowerment as her focus.
He said evidence of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings’ achievements would be seen across the nation in the form of palm oil extraction machines and gari production projects, which were still operational.
