A statue commemorating the late former President Jerry John Rawlings has been unveiled in his maternal hometown of Dzelukofe, located in the Keta Municipality of the Volta Region. The monument, situated on the grounds of the Parks and Gardens in Keta, aims to preserve and promote the legacy of Mr. Rawlings, the first President of Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by family members, including his children Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings and Kimathi Agyemang-Rawlings, traditional authorities such as the Awomefia Togbe Sri, political leaders including National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, Volta Regional Minister James Gunu, and Volta Regional New Patriotic Party Chairman Makafui Woanyah.
At the event, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Operations at the National Health Insurance Authority praised Rawlings for his contributions to national and regional development, highlighting the Keta Sea Defense Project as one of his major interventions. He encouraged the youth to emulate the former President’s dedication to public service.
Volta Regional Minister James Gunu described Rawlings’ rise to the presidency as a “light after darkness” and lauded him as a national asset whose influence persists even after death.
Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings expressed gratitude to those behind the initiative, saying she hopes the statue will inspire future generations to uphold her father’s values and commitment to Ghana.
NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia noted that Rawlings had opposed monuments in his honor during his lifetime, preferring to “live in the hearts of people.” He added that the time is now appropriate to honor the former President, preserve his legacy, and educate younger generations about his contributions through books and monuments.
He concluded, “Even though he rejected statues while alive, this one will serve as a lasting reminder of the flame he lived for and died for.”