Memorial Mass to Mark First Anniversary of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings’ Death
A Memorial Mass will be held at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Adabraka, Accra, on Friday, October 23, 2026, to commemorate the first anniversary of the death of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, Ghana’s former First Lady and founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement.
According to an announcement from the family spokesperson, the Mass will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. and end at midday. Attendees are expected to wear either white or black and white.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings passed away on October 23, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of political activism, women’s empowerment, early childhood education and community development.
Legacy of Women’s Empowerment and Community Development
As First Lady from 1981 to 2001, Mrs Agyeman-Rawlings played a significant role in promoting women’s participation in politics, gender equality, grassroots development and poverty alleviation.
Through her political activism, she encouraged Ghanaian women to take active roles in decision-making and the governance of their communities, particularly during the establishment of district assemblies in the 1980s. Her advocacy helped inspire greater female participation in politics, business, industry and leadership.
One of her most notable achievements was the establishment of the 31st December Women’s Movement, which constructed more than 1,000 early childhood development centres across Ghana. The centres were supported by donor communities, international organisations and local initiatives.
The facilities helped expand access to preschool education, particularly for children in rural and economically disadvantaged communities, while contributing to efforts to break the cycle of poverty.
Contribution to Women’s Rights and International Advocacy
Mrs Agyeman-Rawlings also played a prominent role in international advocacy for women’s rights. She participated in the 1995 United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing and supported regional peace initiatives involving First Ladies in West Africa and across the African continent.
Her commitment to protecting the rights of women and children also contributed to the broader advocacy surrounding legal reforms and constitutional protections in Ghana. These included measures addressing family welfare, women’s rights and the protection of children, alongside provisions reflected in the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560).
Her work remains part of the wider history of efforts to advance gender equality, child welfare and social development in Ghana.
Role in Ghana’s Fourth Republic
Following Ghana’s return to multiparty democratic governance in 1992, Mrs Agyeman-Rawlings continued to use her position as First Lady to advocate for women’s empowerment and increased participation in national development.
Her years in public life were marked by sustained engagement with community-based initiatives and efforts to improve opportunities for women and children.
As the country prepares to mark the first anniversary of her passing, the Memorial Mass will provide an opportunity for family members, friends, associates and members of the public to honour her life and reflect on her contributions to Ghanaian society.
The commemoration will take place on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the Holy Spirit Cathedral, Adabraka, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The prescribed attire is white or black and white.
