President John Dramani Mahama has submitted the names of 12 nominees to Parliament for consideration and vetting by the Appointments Committee.
These nominees include three Regional Ministers and nine Sector Ministers, all of whom are experienced politicians, professionals, and public servants dedicated to supporting the nation’s development agenda.
These appointments, which cover key regions and ministries, are designed to enhance the government’s focus on governance, infrastructure, youth development, and economic transformation.
Regional Minister Nominees
The new Regional Ministerial nominees bring a blend of expertise and experience to their respective regions:
- Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere – Central Region: An educationist with over 20 years of leadership experience, Mr. Okyere is a two-term MP for Gomoa East and leads the Centre for Artisan and Apprentice Development, where he has helped empower thousands of artisans.
- Joseph Nelson – Western Region: With a background in finance and economic management, Mr. Nelson has held roles in Ghana and the UK. He is a former Regional Director of the Youth Employment Agency and holds advanced degrees in International Finance and Economic Policy.
Sector Minister Nominees
The nominees for sector ministries are experienced leaders in their fields:
- Kwame Governs Agbodza (MP) – Ministry of Roads and Highways: An architect and Majority Chief Whip in Parliament, Hon. Agbodza has extensive experience managing development projects in healthcare, education, and housing, both in Ghana and abroad.
- Eric Opoku (MP) – Ministry of Food and Agriculture: With over 12 years of parliamentary experience, Hon. Opoku is an expert in agriculture and law. He is currently the Ranking Member on the Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs Committee.
- Agnes Naa Momo Lartey (MP) – Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection: A development expert, Hon. Lartey has over 20 years of experience in governance, education, and women’s rights.
- Abla Dzifa Gomashie (MP) – Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts: A passionate advocate for creative arts, Hon. Gomashie has served as a two-term MP and has worked extensively to promote Ghanaian culture and tourism.
- Emelia Arthur (MP) – Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture: A development specialist, Hon. Arthur has expertise in local governance and natural resource management and has worked with international organizations on policy and capacity-building.
- George Opare-Addo – Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment: A lawyer and experienced party organizer, Mr. Opare-Addo has served as Municipal Chief Executive for Akuapem North and as National Youth Organizer of the NDC.
- Haruna Iddrisu (MP) – Ministry of Education: A seasoned politician, Hon. Iddrisu is a former Minister for Communications and has held leadership roles in Parliament, including Majority and Minority Leader.
- Ahmed Ibrahim (MP) – Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs: A legislator since 2009, Hon. Ibrahim brings a background in finance and public administration.
- Elizabeth Ofosu Adjare (MP) – Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry: A lawyer and former Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Hon. Adjare has vast experience in legal practice and international relations.
Next steps
The nominations have been formally submitted to Parliament through Speaker Alban Bagbin for approval. The Appointments Committee will now begin a thorough vetting process to assess the qualifications, track records, and alignment of the nominees with the nation’s priorities.
The recent high-profile appointments, including Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, John Jinapor, and Dr. Dominic Aduna Bingab Nitiwul, have already set the direction for the administration’s focus on critical sectors like finance, energy, and justice.
As the process moves forward, many will be watching closely to see how these new leaders will contribute to the development of Ghana and support the government’s agenda for economic and social progress.
