President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a new slate of ministerial nominees as part of his commitment to advancing governance and addressing critical national challenges. The appointments, which span sectors such as education, infrastructure, agriculture, youth development, trade, local governance, and fisheries, reflect a strategic approach to fostering growth and delivering impactful policies.
Haruna Iddrisu, a veteran politician and former Minority Leader in Parliament, has been nominated to head the Ministry of Education. Renowned for his exceptional leadership and commitment to public service, Iddrisu is well-positioned to lead transformative reforms in the education sector. His nomination underscores the government’s focus on improving access to quality education, enhancing teacher training, and integrating technology into schools to ensure Ghana’s students are equipped for the modern world. With education serving as a cornerstone for national development, Iddrisu’s leadership will likely usher in innovative policies to bridge the gap between rural and urban education standards.
For the Ministry of Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza has been nominated to oversee one of the most critical sectors in Ghana’s development agenda. As a seasoned professional with vast experience in engineering and infrastructure development, Agbodza is tasked with addressing the challenges of road infrastructure and ensuring efficient transportation systems nationwide. His role will involve tackling longstanding issues such as poor road networks, urban congestion, and rural accessibility. By focusing on sustainable and durable infrastructure, Agbodza’s leadership is expected to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance connectivity across the country.
Eric Opoku, with his deep-rooted experience in rural development, has been nominated to lead the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. This sector remains a backbone of Ghana’s economy, supporting millions of livelihoods. Opoku’s track record as an advocate for farmers and rural communities makes him an ideal candidate to spearhead initiatives aimed at boosting agricultural productivity. His priorities will likely include strengthening supply chains, providing farmers with access to modern equipment, and enhancing food security. Opoku’s appointment signals the government’s resolve to modernize agriculture and reduce dependency on food imports while ensuring that farmers receive the necessary support to thrive.
A significant development in this administration is the creation of the Ministry for Youth Development and Empowerment. Recognizing the growing importance of Ghana’s youthful population, President Mahama has nominated NDC Youth Organiser, Opare Addo, as the ministry’s inaugural head. This bold move highlights the government’s focus on addressing youth unemployment, fostering entrepreneurship, and empowering young people to drive innovation. Addo is expected to design and implement policies that provide skills training, mentorship programs, and opportunities for young entrepreneurs to access funding and resources. The ministry’s establishment is a testament to the president’s belief that investing in the youth is essential for building a sustainable and prosperous future.
Elizabeth Ofosu Adjare, a respected public servant, has been nominated to lead the Ministry for Trade and Agribusiness. Her role is critical in positioning Ghana as a competitive player in both local and international trade markets. With agribusiness identified as a key driver of economic growth, Adjare is expected to promote policies that empower small-scale farmers and entrepreneurs while attracting foreign investment to the sector. Her leadership will focus on expanding Ghana’s trade footprint, supporting value-added production, and creating jobs within the agribusiness value chain.
Ahmed Ibrahim has been nominated to helm the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, a portfolio that combines traditional governance structures with modern administrative practices. Ibrahim’s role will involve fostering harmonious relationships between traditional authorities, religious leaders, and local governments to ensure effective collaboration. His leadership is expected to enhance grassroots development and strengthen decentralization policies to bring governance closer to the people.
For the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur has been nominated to lead efforts in ensuring the sustainability of Ghana’s marine resources. The fisheries sector is vital to the livelihoods of coastal communities and contributes significantly to the national economy. Arthur, with her background in environmental sustainability and resource management, will prioritize policies that combat illegal fishing practices, protect marine biodiversity, and support fisherfolk. Her leadership aims to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental preservation in the sector.
These appointments by President Mahama are a clear reflection of his vision for an inclusive and results-oriented government. By selecting individuals with proven track records in their respective fields, the president has demonstrated his commitment to tackling the pressing challenges facing the nation. Each nominee is tasked with delivering results that align with the administration’s broader goal of ensuring economic stability, social inclusion, and sustainable development.
As Parliament prepares to vet these nominees, the nation awaits the formalization of their appointments with great anticipation. Ghanaians are hopeful that these leaders will bring renewed energy and innovation to their respective ministries, translating the president’s vision into tangible outcomes for the people.
The Ministry of Education, under Haruna Iddrisu’s leadership, is expected to improve educational standards and accessibility, ensuring that every Ghanaian child has the opportunity to succeed. The Ministry of Roads and Highways, led by Governs Kwame Agbodza, will focus on creating a reliable infrastructure network that connects communities and drives economic activities. Eric Opoku’s stewardship of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture will likely transform Ghana’s agricultural sector, empowering farmers and ensuring food security.
With the creation of the Ministry for Youth Development and Empowerment, Opare Addo is positioned to address the challenges facing the youth while unlocking their potential to contribute to national progress. Elizabeth Ofosu Adjare’s leadership in the Ministry for Trade and Agribusiness is anticipated to strengthen Ghana’s position in global markets while boosting local industries. Ahmed Ibrahim will ensure effective local governance and foster unity among traditional and religious groups, while Emelia Arthur’s stewardship of the fisheries sector will ensure sustainable resource management and economic growth.
These nominees represent a new chapter in Ghana’s governance, marked by strategic leadership and a commitment to national development. Together, they embody President Mahama’s vision for a prosperous and united Ghana, where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.
