Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the President of Ghana, is widely recognized as a prominent leader on the African continent. While much is known about his political achievements and personal life with his current wife, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, fewer people are familiar with his first wife, Madam Eleanor Akosua Akufo-Addo, née Saa Nkansah-Gyamenah. Eleanor was a remarkable woman whose life and contributions continue to be celebrated even three decades after her passing.
Eleanor Akosua Akufo-Addo passed away on July 13, 1993, but her legacy endures through her family and the positive impact she left behind. As a lawyer and the first Ashanti Regional Manager of DHL, Eleanor was a trailblazer in her professional career. She hailed from the Botase Royal Family of Asante Mampong, a lineage that speaks to her strong cultural and traditional roots.
Her Marriage to Nana Akufo-Addo
Eleanor Akosua Akufo-Addo was married to Nana Akufo-Addo during his early years as a rising figure in Ghanaian politics and legal circles. Together, they had a daughter, Edwina Nana Dokua Akufo-Addo. Edwina has grown into a successful entrepreneur and now owns a restaurant in Accra named Nsuom Nam, which she operates alongside her sisters. The restaurant, located in Cantonments, is a testament to the family’s entrepreneurial spirit and drive.
In 2021, Edwina married Kwabena Jumah, the son of Maxwell Kofi Jumah, the Managing Director of GIHOC Distilleries Company Limited. This union further strengthened the ties between two prominent Ghanaian families.
Remembering Eleanor: 30 Years Later
On July 13, 2023, the 30th anniversary of Eleanor Akosua Akufo-Addo’s passing was observed. To honor her memory and contributions, President Akufo-Addo, alongside their daughter Edwina, dedicated a social center in her name.
The Eleanor Akosua Akufo -Addo Social Centre, constructed in her hometown of Asante Mampong, serves as a lasting tribute to her life and legacy. The center is a space designed to foster community engagement and development, reflecting Eleanor’s values of service and dedication.
This commemoration was not only a moment for the family to reflect on Eleanor’s life but also an opportunity for the community to celebrate a woman who broke barriers in her career and stood as a pillar of strength for her family.
Nana Akufo-Addo’s Life After Eleanor
Following Eleanor’s untimely death, Nana Akufo-Addo eventually remarried. He is now married to Rebecca Akufo-Addo, the daughter of Justice J. H. Griffiths-Randolph, who served as the Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana during the Third Republic. Rebecca has been a steadfast partner in Nana Akufo-Addo’s political journey, supporting his endeavors as he rose through the ranks to become President.
There have also been claims, particularly on platforms like Wikipedia, that Nana Akufo-Addo was married to Remi Fani-Kayode, a Nigerian and the daughter of Chief Remilekun Fani-Kayode. While this has not been universally confirmed, it is known that Nana Akufo-Addo has a daughter named Valerie Obazie from this union. Valerie has maintained a low profile, with little public information available about her life.
Eleanor’s Lasting Impact
Eleanor Akosua Akufo-Addo’s legacy is defined not just by her accomplishments as a lawyer and manager but also by the values she instilled in her family. Her daughter Edwina’s entrepreneurial achievements are a testament to the foundation of resilience and determination that Eleanor laid during her lifetime.
The establishment of the Eleanor Akosua Akufo-Addo Social Centre further cements her place in Ghana’s history. It stands as a symbol of her enduring impact and the love and respect her family and community continue to have for her.
Lessons from Eleanor’s Story
Eleanor’s story serves as an inspiration to many, particularly young women in Ghana and beyond. Her achievements as a professional in a male-dominated field during her time are a reminder of the potential for women to break barriers and achieve greatness. Her ability to balance her career with her family life further underscores the strength and grace she embodied.
Her life also highlights the importance of remembering and honoring those who have paved the way for others. By dedicating a social center in her name, her family ensures that her contributions are not forgotten and that future generations can learn from her example.
As Ghana continues to evolve, stories like Eleanor’s serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the significant role women have played in shaping the country’s history. Her legacy is a celebration of resilience, love, and the unyielding spirit of a remarkable woman.
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