President John Dramani Mahama officially swore in five new ministers at the Jubilee House on Friday, January 24, 2025. This significant milestone follows their approval by Parliament, which occurred after a rigorous vetting process and extensive debate held on January 23 and 24.
The appointments signal the government’s commitment to addressing key national challenges and advancing its development agenda through strategic leadership.
In his address during the swearing-in ceremony, President Mahama underscored the critical roles these ministers are expected to play in Ghana’s progress. He called on them to exhibit diligence, accountability, and innovation in tackling the pressing issues facing the nation. He emphasized the importance of transparency and inclusivity, urging them to collaborate effectively with stakeholders to deliver on their mandates.
The newly sworn-in ministers and their respective portfolios are as follows:
Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie has been appointed Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts. With her extensive background in cultural advocacy and her passion for the arts, Madam Gomashie is well-positioned to revitalize Ghana’s tourism sector. Her mandate includes promoting the nation’s rich cultural heritage and leveraging the creative arts as a key driver of economic growth. As Ghana’s tourism industry continues to expand, her leadership is expected to foster innovative strategies that attract global attention while preserving the country’s unique cultural identity. She aims to work closely with local artisans and cultural institutions to enhance the visibility of Ghanaian culture on the international stage.
Mr. George Opare Addo takes on the role of Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment. A known advocate for youth empowerment, Mr. Opare Addo has been tasked with creating sustainable opportunities for Ghana’s youth. His portfolio involves fostering entrepreneurship, promoting skills development, and addressing the challenges of unemployment among young people. His appointment reflects the government’s focus on empowering the younger generation as a catalyst for national development. He intends to initiate programs that provide mentorship and resources to young entrepreneurs, ensuring that they have the support needed to succeed in their ventures.
Madam Emelia Arthur has been appointed Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development. Renowned for her dedication to rural development, Madam Arthur will oversee policies aimed at enhancing sustainable fishing practices and expanding the aquaculture industry. Her focus includes improving the livelihoods of fishing communities and ensuring food security. Her appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Ghana’s fisheries sector and its contribution to the nation’s economy. Madam Arthur plans to implement training programs for fish farmers to adopt sustainable practices, thereby increasing productivity while preserving marine biodiversity.
Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim assumes the role of Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs. With extensive experience in governance, Mr. Ibrahim is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening local government systems. His responsibilities include fostering collaboration with traditional authorities and promoting harmony among religious communities to enhance grassroots development. His appointment highlights the government’s commitment to addressing governance and development challenges at the local level. Mr. Ibrahim aims to facilitate community engagement initiatives that empower local leaders and ensure that citizens have a voice in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.
Madam Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare has been sworn in as Minister for Trade, Industry, and Agribusiness. A seasoned professional with a strong legal and policy background, Madam Ofosu-Adjare will lead efforts to industrialize Ghana’s economy, promote trade, and expand opportunities in agribusiness. Her leadership is expected to drive initiatives that enhance the country’s industrial base while creating jobs and fostering economic growth. She plans to work closely with private sector partners to develop strategies that stimulate investment in key industries, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic resilience.
During the ceremony, President Mahama highlighted the importance of collective responsibility, urging the ministers to remain committed to their duties and prioritize the needs of Ghanaians. He called for innovative solutions to the country’s challenges, emphasizing that their success would contribute to the overall progress of the nation. The President also reiterated his administration’s dedication to building an inclusive government that values diverse perspectives and ensures equitable development across all regions.
The swearing-in of these ministers represents a significant step in strengthening the government’s team to achieve its goals. Each minister brings unique expertise and experience to their respective portfolios, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to delivering tangible results. Ghanaians have expressed high expectations for the new ministers, with many hoping for improved service delivery and the implementation of impactful policies that address the country’s pressing needs.
As the government continues to prioritize economic transformation, social development, and good governance, the new ministers are expected to contribute significantly to these efforts. Their appointments mark a renewed focus on addressing sector-specific challenges and creating opportunities for sustainable growth. The collaboration between the ministers, stakeholders, and the public will be crucial in achieving the government’s vision for a prosperous and inclusive Ghana.
The ceremony concluded with the ministers pledging their unwavering commitment to their roles and their readiness to serve the nation diligently. Their appointments have been met with optimism, with many stakeholders expressing confidence in their ability to deliver results that align with the President’s vision for national development.
The swearing-in ceremony serves as a reminder of the government’s responsibility to uphold transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in governance. As the newly sworn-in ministers begin their work, they carry the hopes and expectations of the nation, with the task of translating policies into meaningful actions that improve the lives of Ghanaians. The collective effort of these leaders, guided by President Mahama’s vision, is seen as vital in steering Ghana towards a brighter future filled with opportunities and sustainable development for all citizens.
With these appointments, President Mahama reaffirms his commitment to building a government that not only responds to the needs of its citizens but also empowers them to participate actively in the nation’s growth. As the ministers embark on their new roles, their dedication to service and community engagement will be essential in fostering a spirit of collaboration and trust between the government and the people of Ghana.
