Ghana declares three days of national mourning in honour of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings

The President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, has declared three days of national mourning in honour of the late Her Excellency Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana.

In a presidential declaration issued from the Jubilee House in Accra, President Mahama described the late Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings as “one of Ghana’s distinguished daughters” whose passing has brought “profound sorrow across our nation.”

The period of mourning will be observed from Friday, 24th October to Sunday, 26th October 2025, during which all national flags are to be flown at half-mast across public buildings, institutions, diplomatic missions, and government establishments both in Ghana and abroad.

President Mahama, in the declaration, paid glowing tribute to the former First Lady, recognizing her lifelong dedication to the causes of women’s empowerment, child welfare, and social justice. He highlighted her “enduring legacy of courage, compassion, and patriotism”, describing her as a symbol of selfless service and a champion for the rights and dignity of women and children.

The President further urged citizens to use the mourning period as a time for reflection on Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings’ “life of selfless service and unwavering advocacy for Ghana’s progress.”

The Government of Ghana has also extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, including her children, and all who mourn her loss.

Concluding the declaration, President Mahama affirmed that the nation’s collective grief is matched only by its gratitude:

“Let this declaration stand as a mark of our nation’s gratitude and respect for her exceptional contribution to Ghana’s development and democratic journey. May her noble soul rest in perfect peace.”

The late Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, was widely celebrated for her leadership in advancing women’s rights through initiatives such as the 31st December Women’s Movement. Her impact on Ghana’s political and social landscape remains deeply felt.