Theresa Kufuor: Former First Lady dies at age 87

 

(Mrs. Theresa Kuffour)

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Theresa Kufuor, the wife of former President John Agyekum Kufuor. Mrs. Kufuor peacefully passed away at her home in Peduase, surrounded by her family on Sunday, October 1. She was 87 years old.

The news of her passing has touched many hearts, including that of President Nana Akufo-Addo, who has already visited the residence of former President Kufuor to offer his condolences and support during this difficult time.

Theresa Kufuor, born on October 25, 1935, was a remarkable woman who served as the wife of John Kufuor, the second President of the Fourth Republic of Ghana. She held the esteemed position of First Lady of Ghana during her husband's presidency. Prior to that, she had a successful career as a nurse and midwife, dedicating herself to caring for others.

Her contributions to Ghana and her commitment to public service will always be remembered. As a retired nurse and midwife, she touched the lives of many people and made a positive impact in her community and beyond.

During this time of mourning, our thoughts and prayers are with the Kufuor family and all those who were close to Theresa Kufuor. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Mrs. Kufuor began her education at the Catholic Convent, OLA, in Keta, Volta Region, Ghana. She later pursued her studies in London, where she received training as a Registered General Nurse in the Southern Hospital Group of Nursing, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Continuing her education, she underwent further training at the Radcliffe Infirmary in Oxford and Paddington General Hospital in London. Her studies led her to qualify as a State Certified Midwife with a Certificate in Premature Nursing.

Theresa Kufuor met John Kufuor at a Republic Day Anniversary Dance in London in 1961 when she was just 23 years old. They married the following year in 1962. Together, they have five children and eight grandchildren. Mrs. Kufuor is known for her devout Roman Catholic faith.

Despite her role as the First Lady of Ghana for eight years from 2001 to 2009 during her husband's presidency, she remained relatively low-key in the political arena. Her focus was on maintaining a private and supportive role alongside her husband.

In 2007, Mrs. Kufuor played an instrumental role in advocating for policy changes in the Government's white paper on Educational Reforms. She advocated for the implementation of UNESCO's Free Compulsory Universal Basic Education (FCUBE) program, specifically targeting kindergarten children.

Furthermore, she founded the Mother and Child Community Development Foundation (MCCDF), a non-governmental organization that operates in Ghana and Canada. The foundation is dedicated to supporting initiatives and programs aimed at preventing mother-to-child transmission and promoting the well-being of mothers and children.

Theresa Kufuor leaves behind a legacy of dedication to healthcare and education, as well as her contributions to the betterment of Ghanaian society. Her impact as a nurse, midwife, and advocate will be remembered and cherished.

Sources:
- GhanaWeb - "Former First Lady Theresa Kufuor"
- GNA - "Mrs. Theresa Kufuor, wife of former President John Agyekum Kufuor passes away"