President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled the final batch of Regional Ministers-designate, completing the 16-member team set to spearhead his administration’s regional governance agenda.
These nominees have been carefully selected to reflect a blend of expertise, experience, and commitment, ensuring the effective decentralization and coordination of government policies at the regional level.
The ministers-designate come from diverse professional backgrounds and are entrusted with the responsibility of driving development across their respective regions. They are expected to play a pivotal role in fostering growth, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting economic initiatives to meet the aspirations of the people in their jurisdictions.
The full list of Regional Ministers-designate includes the following:
- Puozuing Charles Lwanga – Upper West Region
- Joseph Addae Akwaboa – Bono Region
- Francis Owusu Antwi – Bono East Region
- Wilbert Petty Brentum – Western North Region
- Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere – Central Region
- Joseph Nelson – Western Region
- Ali Adolf John – Northern Region
- John Kwadwo Gyapong – Oti Region
- James Gunu – Volta Region
- Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey – Eastern Region
- Ibrahim Tia – North-East Region
- Dr. Frank Amoakohene – Ashanti Region
- Akamugri Donatus Atanga – Upper East Region
- Charity Gardiner – Ahafo Region
- Salisu Bi-Awuribe – Savannah Region
- Linda Ocloo – Greater Accra Region
This comprehensive team represents a balance of competence and diversity, embodying the principles of inclusiveness and innovation. Their appointments are strategic, with each individual bringing a unique set of skills and perspectives to address the challenges specific to their regions.
The nomination of Puozuing Charles Lwanga for the Upper West Region reflects his dedication to rural development and his vision for creating opportunities in underserved communities. His leadership is expected to address issues such as agriculture, education, and healthcare in one of Ghana’s most remote regions.
Similarly, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, the Bono Region nominee, brings years of experience in governance and grassroots mobilization. Known for his pragmatic approach, he is expected to tackle pressing regional issues, including improving access to basic amenities and creating employment opportunities for the youth.
Francis Owusu Antwi, representing the Bono East Region, has a reputation for fostering public-private partnerships. His leadership will focus on harnessing the region’s agricultural potential and expanding trade networks, contributing to economic growth.
Wilbert Petty Brentum’s nomination for the Western North Region highlights his expertise in natural resource management. The region, rich in minerals and timber, will benefit from his focus on sustainable development and environmental protection.
The nomination of Linda Ocloo for the Greater Accra Region reflects a forward-thinking approach to urban planning and governance. Her experience in addressing urban challenges positions her to tackle issues such as housing, transportation, and sanitation in the country’s bustling capital.
Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, nominated for the Eastern Region, brings a wealth of knowledge in community development. Her advocacy for women’s empowerment and education aligns with the administration’s commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusive growth.
The inclusion of experienced professionals like Dr. Frank Amoakohene for the Ashanti Region and Ibrahim Tia for the North-East Region underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing regional disparities. Dr. Amoakohene’s background in healthcare and education makes him well-suited to address critical development gaps in the Ashanti Region, while Ibrahim Tia’s leadership is expected to enhance socio-economic development in the North-East.
The nominees also include individuals with strong political backgrounds, such as James Gunu for the Volta Region and John Kwadwo Gyapong for the Oti Region. Their extensive knowledge of regional governance will be instrumental in coordinating government initiatives and ensuring smooth policy implementation.
President Mahama’s selection process was thorough, emphasizing the need for integrity, dedication, and a results-driven approach. These nominees are expected to serve as a bridge between the central government and local communities, fostering collaboration and trust. Their mandate will involve addressing challenges such as unemployment, improving infrastructure, and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
As they await parliamentary approval, the nominees have already begun engaging with stakeholders to understand the immediate needs of their regions. Their efforts will be focused on delivering tangible results that improve the quality of life for all Ghanaians.
President Mahama’s vision for regional governance is rooted in inclusivity and progress. By selecting individuals from diverse backgrounds, he aims to create a dynamic team capable of addressing the unique needs of each region. This approach reflects the administration’s commitment to fostering unity and shared prosperity.
The finalization of the Regional Ministers-designate marks a significant milestone in President Mahama’s administration. It signals the beginning of a collaborative effort to build a resilient and prosperous Ghana where every region contributes meaningfully to national development.
Ghanaians across the country are optimistic about the impact these nominees will have in their respective roles. With the right support and resources, they are poised to make a lasting difference in the lives of the people they serve.
