Keta: The news of the passing of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, former First Lady, has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, with many residents in the Keta Municipality of the Volta Region expressing their condolences to the bereaved family.
According to Ghana News Agency, the late Nana Konadu, the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, a son from Keta, was described as a stalwart in Ghanaian politics who championed women’s empowerment. Mr. Emmanuel Agozi, a resident of Keta, shared in an interview that as news of Nana Konadu Rawlings’ passing was announced, many residents in the area were paying their respects to the Rawlings family. Others were eulogizing her as a fearless and courageous leader who dedicated her life to the service of others.
Mr. Agozi remarked, “The Rawlings family has been in the news since yesterday afternoon after the announcement of Nana Konadu’s death. Ghana has indeed lost a great icon; she will be in our hearts forever.” He also noted that Nana Konadu was known for her tireless advocacy for women’s rights and her commitment to improving lives, launching a memoir titled “It Takes a Woman” in 2018, which chronicled her life journey in political activism.
He said Ghanaians and the people of Keta would remember Nana Konadu as a kind and compassionate person who always put the needs of others before her own. Her selfless service to the nation and unwavering commitment to the empowerment of women were highlighted as her enduring legacy.
Madam Happy Esinam Babanawo, another citizen of Keta, stated that the nation has lost an irreplaceable individual and urged the public to stand in solidarity with the Rawlings family, praying for their strength and comfort during this difficult time. She emphasized that Nana Konadu’s legacy would continue to inspire and motivate others while her selfless service to the nation was a testament to her character and commitment to the well-being of others.
The late Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was a founding member of the 31st December Women’s Movement, which later evolved into the National Democratic Congress (NDC). She played a pivotal role in the development of the party and was a key advisor to her husband, the late former President Jerry John Rawlings. Notably, she was also the first woman to run for President of Ghana in 2016, contesting on the ticket of her party, the National Democratic Party (NDP).
Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings died at age 76 on Thursday, October 23, at Ridge Hospital in Accra after a short illness. She leaves behind four children, including Dr. Zanetor Rawlings, MP for Klottey-Korley constituency, Yaa Asantewaa Rawlings, Amina Rawlings, and Kimathi Rawlings.