President of the Republic, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, has sworn Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings into office as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology (MEST), formally marking the commencement of her tenure at the Ministry.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Jubilee House in Accra on Saturday, 29 August 2026, following her approval by Parliament.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings took the Oath of Allegiance, Oath of Office and Oath of Secrecy as part of the constitutional requirements for assuming ministerial office.
During the ceremony, President Mahama reminded the newly sworn-in Ministers of the responsibility that comes with public office and urged them to discharge their duties with integrity, humility and commitment to the national interest.
Addressing the environment, science and technology portfolio, the President underscored the importance of protecting Ghana’s environment and natural resources, particularly the country’s forests and water bodies, from the damaging effects of illegal mining and other environmentally harmful activities.
He emphasised the need for environmental protection to be supported by sound science, effective regulation, consistent enforcement and the active involvement of communities and relevant stakeholders.
President Mahama also called for science, technology and innovation to play a stronger role in Ghana’s development. He stressed the importance of strengthening scientific research, supporting local innovation and fostering closer collaboration among Government, universities, research institutions and industry to ensure that scientific knowledge and technological solutions contribute meaningfully to national development.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings assumes responsibility for a Ministry whose mandate brings together environmental governance, scientific research, technological development and innovation. Her professional background as a medical doctor also provides a valuable perspective on the relationship between environmental conditions, sustainable development and human wellbeing.
Her assumption of office marks a new chapter in the leadership of the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology and provides an opportunity to strengthen the integration of environmental sustainability, science, technology and innovation within Ghana’s development agenda.
The Ministry remains committed to working closely with its Directorates and Agencies, research institutions, academia, industry, development partners, civil society and other stakeholders to protect Ghana’s environment, strengthen scientific and technological capacity, promote innovation and translate Government policy into measurable outcomes for national development.
