Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has paid glowing tribute to the late former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, describing her as one of the most influential Ghanaian women of her generation and a powerful force in the nation’s struggle for women’s empowerment.
In a statement, Akufo-Addo praised the former First Lady for her boldness, dynamism and eloquence, noting that she used the political space created by her late husband, former President Jerry John Rawlings, to champion the cause of women through the 31st December Women’s Movement. He said her activism resonated across the continent, earning her recognition among Africa’s most prominent women.
Akufo-Addo recalled appointing her in 2018 to lead Ghana’s delegation to the funeral of South African anti-apartheid icon Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, despite her not being a supporter of his government. He said she was “the most appropriate Ghanaian woman” to represent the country at the event, a reflection of her stature and influence.
While acknowledging the controversies that often surrounded her public life, Akufo-Addo said he had no difficulty recognising the positive impact of the 31st December Women’s Movement on Ghanaian women’s advancement. “Her place in history is firmly grounded,” he noted.
He also spoke fondly of the warm relationship between their families, despite political differences. “She was a vivacious, sparkling woman whose company and wit I enjoyed very much,” he said, adding that he cherished their interactions both during and after his presidency.
Akufo-Addo extended condolences to her children, Dr. Zanetor, Yaa Asantewaa, Amina and Kimathi as well as the wider Rawlings family and the nation. He prayed for her eternal rest, saying, “May God bless her and give her soul a peaceful place of abode in His Bosom until the Last Day of the Resurrection, when we shall all meet again.”