A pioneer and stalwart of the National Democratic Congress, Cadre Cousin Doamekpor has lauded former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings for her impactful role in empowering women through her 31st December Movement.
He revealed that the initiative enabled women to engage in gari processing and red oil production, which brought financial stability to many households and fostered economic independence among women.
In a media interview, Mr. Doamekpor shared that the former First Lady also established 31st December schools near markets, allowing women to sell their goods while their children were cared for and fed by the state. He described Nana Konadu as a visionary partner to the late Former President Rawlings, making their leadership uniquely effective and productive.
He recounted, “Those women from the 31st December group were hardworking, starting with gari processing, palm oil, kernel oil, and related by-products. They supported their husbands and contributed to their communities.”
“Nana Konadu also set up day care centers where children were fed and stayed until 4 pm—some of us will never forget Nana Konadu’s efforts.” He said.
The empowerment efforts encouraged a spirit of volunteerism among women, who actively worked to improve their communities through cleaning and other initiatives.
Mr. Doamekpor described Nana Konadu as a principled individual who never tolerated wrongdoing, even in political matters, and stressed that Ghanaian women should learn from her example.
He revealed that after losing the primaries to Former President Evans Attah Mills, Nana Konadu faced ridicule and even attacks at her home, which prompted her to leave the party and form the National Democratic Party (NDP).
“She only left because of the humiliation and attacks following the contest with Attah Mills,” he explained.
Mr. Doamekpor urged the NDC to honor Nana Konadu’s legacy, asserting that the party fundamentally belongs to her.
He noted that pioneer members had intended to bring her back to the party before her passing. He emphasized that Nana Konadu’s deep love for the NDC, especially in the Volta Region, calls for the party to regroup and reclaim its rightful leadership position as the governing party’s foundation.