President John Dramani Mahama has sworn in Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology and Mahama Ayariga as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.
The two took the Oath of Allegiance, Oath of Office and Oath of Secrecy at a ceremony at the Jubilee House on Saturday, following Parliament’s approval of their nominations.
The appointments form part of President Mahama’s ministerial changes announced earlier this month. Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings, the Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle, succeeds to the Environment, Science and Technology portfolio, while Mr. Ayariga, the MP for Bawku Central and former Majority Leader, moves from Parliament to head the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.
Mahama’s charge to the new ministers
President Mahama charged the two ministers to serve with integrity, humility, fairness and accountability, reminding them that public office is a privilege and a responsibility to put the national interest above personal, political and sectional interests.
He further urged them to discharge their responsibilities with courage, compassion and an unwavering commitment to the people of Ghana.
For Mahama Ayariga, President Mahama said the Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs portfolio comes at a critical period in Ghana’s development. He noted that local government is where citizens most directly encounter the state through Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies.
The President therefore expects the new minister to help strengthen local governance, improve public services and deepen decentralisation. He also pointed to Mr. Ayariga’s experience as a legislator, lawyer and former minister as an asset to the assignment.
Zanetor takes charge of environment, science and technology
Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings assumes responsibility for a ministry at the centre of Ghana’s efforts to address environmental protection, scientific research, technological development and sustainability.
Her appointment comes at a time when environmental challenges, including illegal mining and the degradation of Ghana’s forests and water bodies, remain major national concerns.
She is also expected to contribute to the government’s broader agenda of using science, technology and innovation to drive national development.
Ayariga: “We will deliver”
Speaking on behalf of the two newly sworn-in ministers, Mr. Ayariga assured President Mahama that they had taken note of his expectations and would work to deliver on the mandate entrusted to them.
He pledged that they would work towards fulfilling the government’s commitments made to Ghanaians under the Reset Agenda.
The swearing-in formally marks the beginning of the two ministers’ new responsibilities as President Mahama continues to adjust his government and position his administration to advance its policy priorities.
With their appointments now formalised, the spotlight turns to delivery — particularly on environmental protection, science and technology, decentralisation, local governance and stronger engagement with communities.
