In a solemn tribute to the late former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, President John Dramani Mahama has declared a three-day national mourning period, directing that all national flags be flown at half-mast across Ghana and its diplomatic missions worldwide.
President John Dramani Mahama has announced a nationwide observance of mourning following the passing of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, a pioneering advocate for women’s empowerment and social development in Ghana. The mourning period will span from Friday, October 24 to Sunday, October 26, 2025.
During this time, all national flags are to be flown at half-mast at public buildings, government institutions, and Ghanaian embassies and consulates abroad. The directive, issued through a statement signed by Minister for Government Communications Felix Ofosu Kwakye, reflects the government’s recognition of Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings’s exceptional contributions to the nation.
“The declaration of a national mourning period is in honour of her memory and in recognition of her distinguished service to our nation,” the statement read.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, who passed away on Thursday, October 23 at Ridge Hospital in Accra at the age of 76, was widely celebrated for her tireless work in advancing the rights and welfare of women and children. She was the founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement and served as First Lady during the presidency of her husband, the late Jerry John Rawlings.
Born on November 17, 1948, in Cape Coast, she was educated at Ghana International School and later at Achimota School. Her legacy includes decades of activism, leadership, and public service that shaped Ghana’s social landscape.
The government extended its deepest condolences to her family, especially her children, and to all Ghanaians mourning this profound loss. “May her soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement concluded.
As the nation reflects on her life and legacy, the symbolic gesture of flying flags at half-mast serves as a unified expression of respect and remembrance for one of Ghana’s most influential women.