President John Dramani Mahama has declared three days of national mourning following the death of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, a pioneering advocate for women’s rights and a central figure in Ghana’s political life for decades.
The mourning period, which begins Friday, October 24, and runs through Sunday, October 26, will see national flags flown at half-staff across public institutions, government installations, and Ghana’s diplomatic missions worldwide, according to a statement issued Friday by presidential spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.
The government described the move as a tribute to Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings’ “dedication and commitment” to national service, highlighting her long-standing efforts in advancing women’s empowerment, child welfare, and social development.
“The Government extends its deepest condolences to the family, her children, and all who mourn this irreplaceable loss. May her soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement said.
Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings died Thursday at Ridge Hospital in Accra at the age of 76. As the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, she was both a political partner and an influential figure in her own right — founding the 31st December Women’s Movement and later leading the National Democratic Party.
Her passing marks the end of an era for one of Ghana’s most prominent political families.
