Rawlings Family Announces Funeral Arrangements for Late Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings

Stay informed on the state funeral plans for Ghana’s influential former First Lady, including dates, venues, and public participation guidelines.

Introduction

The Rawlings family is set to reveal detailed funeral arrangements for the late Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings, Ghana’s former First Lady and a pivotal figure in the nation’s political history. On November 18, 2025, family representatives arrived at the Information Services Department (ISD) in Accra to brief the media. This announcement addresses the official program, venues, dates, and activities honoring her legacy.

Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings passed away on October 23, 2025, prompting widespread tributes from political leaders, civil society, and Ghanaians. President John Dramani Mahama has confirmed a state funeral on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Independence Square in Accra. As the founder and leader of the National Democratic Party (NDP) and First Lady from 1981 to 2001, her contributions to women’s rights and Ghana’s political landscape remain celebrated.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings funeral arrangements, offering historical context, key details, and practical insights for public involvement.

Analysis

Historical Significance of Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings

Born on March 17, 1948, Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings was married to former President Jerry John Rawlings, who led Ghana through revolutionary and democratic periods from 1981 to 2001. During her tenure as First Lady, she championed women’s empowerment, founding the 31st December Women’s Movement in 1982 to promote education, health, and economic opportunities for women—a initiative that trained thousands and influenced gender policies in Ghana.

Post-2001, she founded the NDP in 1992, which merged into the National Democratic Congress (NDC) before reforming. Her fearless advocacy positioned her as a central architect of modern Ghanaian politics, blending grassroots activism with national leadership.

Context of the State Funeral Announcement

The family’s choice of ISD for the media briefing underscores the event’s national importance. State funerals in Ghana, reserved for presidents, vice presidents, and select dignitaries, involve government coordination, military honors, and public ceremonies. President Mahama’s declaration aligns with protocols under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which allows the president to accord such honors to distinguished citizens.

The outpouring of tributes reflects her enduring impact, with figures from across the political spectrum acknowledging her role in democracy and social justice.

Summary

In summary, the Rawlings family will detail Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings state funeral plans via a media briefing at ISD, Accra. Key elements include a state funeral on November 28, 2025, at Independence Square, covering the full program for public homage. This event honors her legacy as NDP leader, former First Lady, and women’s rights advocate, following her death on October 23, 2025.

Key Points

Practical Advice

How to Participate in the State Funeral

The Rawlings family briefing will outline public involvement. Typically, for Ghanaian state funerals:

• Attendance: Independence Square events are open to the public; arrive early for security checks. Follow designated seating for dignitaries, families, and general attendees.
• Live Broadcasts: Expect coverage on Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), Joy FM, and other networks. Check ISD or family social media for streams.
• Tributes and Donations: Contribute via official family channels or women’s empowerment foundations linked to her legacy, such as extensions of the 31st December Women’s Movement.
• Memorial Activities: Participate in pre-funeral events like wakes or church services, detailed in the announcement.

Preparation Tips

Wear respectful attire (dark colors, no jeans). Respect protocols: no photography in restricted areas, adhere to traffic diversions around Accra. Monitor updates from reliable sources like ISD or GBC for weather-related changes.

Points of Caution

While honoring Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings, exercise caution:

• Security: High-profile events attract crowds; follow police directives and avoid unauthorized zones.
• Misinformation: Rely on official ISD or family statements; disregard unverified social media claims about Rawlings family funeral announcement.
• Health Protocols: Adhere to any post-COVID guidelines, including masking in crowded areas.
• Respect Privacy: Avoid intruding on family during private rites.

Comparison

Versus Jerry John Rawlings’ State Funeral

Jerry Rawlings received a state funeral on January 27, 2020, at the Accra International Conference Centre, followed by burial at the Military Cemetery. Similar to Nana Konadu’s event, it featured military honors, presidential eulogies, and public mourning. Both occurred at national venues, but hers at Independence Square emphasizes civic symbolism.

With Other Ghanaian State Funerals

Like former President John Evans Atta Mills’ 2012 funeral at Accra Sports Stadium, these events unite the nation. Nana Konadu’s aligns with protocols for non-presidents, focusing on her stateswoman status, differing from military burials for armed forces leaders.

Legal Implications

State funerals in Ghana fall under Article 103 of the 1992 Constitution and Public Holidays Act, empowering the president to declare such honors. The ISD briefing complies with media protocols under the National Media Commission. Public gatherings require police permits under the Public Order Act, 1994 (Act 491), ensuring orderly conduct. No private legal issues arise from participation, but violations of assembly laws could lead to fines or arrests. Families must register deaths per the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 2020 (Act 1039), which the Rawlings family has followed.

Conclusion

The Rawlings family’s announcement of Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings funeral arrangements marks a solemn chapter in Ghanaian history, celebrating a trailblazer in politics and women’s rights. The state funeral on November 28, 2025, at Independence Square offers Ghanaians a chance to pay respects. By understanding the details, historical context, and participation guidelines, the public can honor her legacy respectfully. This event reaffirms her role in shaping Ghana’s democratic journey.

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