Late High Court Justice Rita Agyeman-Budu goes home November 22
he High Court judge died in July 2025, aged 64. A series of remembrance events began earlier this week and will conclude with her interment on Saturday.
Ghana’s judicial fraternity is preparing to lay to rest Justice Rita Agyeman-Budu, whose memorial and burial service will take place on Saturday, 22 November 2025, at the United Church in the Teshie-Nungua Estate.
The High Court judge died in July 2025, aged 64. A series of remembrance events began earlier this week and will conclude with her interment on Saturday.
From Journalism to the Bench
Born in Kumasi on 19 September 1960, Justice Agyeman-Budu followed a career path that colleagues describe as both unconventional and inspiring. Before joining the Judicial Service, she worked in the media and later engaged in social development initiatives—experiences that shaped her approach to justice and public service.
Her rise through the judiciary spanned more than twenty years. She served at various levels, beginning as a District Magistrate, later a Circuit Court Judge, and eventually a Justice of the High Court. She became known for her work in establishing and strengthening gender-based violence courts in Accra and Kumasi, where she earned a reputation for firmness, empathy, and professional integrity.
National Influence, International Recognition
Justice Agyeman-Budu was widely respected beyond Ghana’s borders. She played prominent roles in the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ), rising from Assistant Secretary to President of the Ghana Chapter. Her contributions helped shape regional advocacy on access to justice for women and girls.
Her creative work was also notable. In 2014, she authored A Call for Justice, a drama that was later adapted for film and aired on national television, highlighting social issues from a judicial perspective.
A Legacy Marked by Service
She leaves behind her husband, Kwame Agyeman-Budu, three children, grandchildren, and an extended network of relatives, friends, church members, and professional colleagues.
Tributes from within the judiciary describe her as principled, soft-spoken, and unwavering in her commitment to fairness. Many say her influence—particularly in judicial reforms and disciplinary work within the Service—will continue to guide the next generation of legal professionals.
Justice Rita Agyeman-Budu’s funeral service will bring together members of the bench, bar, and wider community to honour a life dedicated to justice.
