President John Dramani Mahama has sworn into office two new Ministers of State at the Jubilee House in Accra, charging them to serve the people of Ghana with integrity, humility and fairness.
Former Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga was sworn in as Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, whilst Member of Parliament for Korle-Klottey, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings took the oath of office as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology.
The brief but solemn ceremony was attended by the Vice President, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the Chief of Staff Dr Julius Debrah , some ministers of state and government officials.
President Mahama reminded the appointees that the oaths administered were not mere formalities but "solemn commitments to serve the people of Ghana with integrity, humility, fairness and fidelity to our Constitution."
He emphasised that public office is a privilege and not a right, and requires placing the national interest above personal convenience, political consideration and sectional interest.
Ayariga's Task
Turning to Mr Ayariga, the President noted that he assumes responsibility for his portfolio at an important time in the nation's development.
"You bring considerable experience to this assignment as a legislator, a lawyer and a former Minister of State, having served both in the Ministries of Youth and Sports and Environment, Science and Technology," President Mahama said.
He charged the new Minister to make decentralisation meaningful to citizens, stressing that Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies must become more accountable, financially disciplined and responsive to the needs of communities.
"Poor spatial planning, uncontrolled development, sanitation challenges, congestion and the persistent encroachment of public spaces cannot continue to be left unchecked," the President said.
On Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, President Mahama urged the Minister to engage traditional authorities and religious institutions with respect and fairness, adding that Ghana's religious and cultural diversity must remain a source of strength rather than division.
Zanetor's Mandate
Addressing Dr Agyeman-Rawlings, the President said she brings to the office a valuable combination of medical training, parliamentary experience, humanitarian service and a long-standing commitment to public health.
"The environment is not separate from human health," President Mahama said.
He added that, "Polluted rivers, contaminated soils, poor sanitation, unsafe air and indiscriminate waste disposal eventually find expression in our hospitals and in the health of our people."
He underscored that the destruction of forests and water bodies through illegal mining remains one of the gravest threats to national survival, declaring that "this administration will continue to act firmly against those who place private profits above the collective well-being of our people."
The President also charged the Minister to place science, technology and innovation at the heart of national development, strengthening scientific research and supporting local inventors.
Call For Collaboration
President Mahama stressed the need for close collaboration between the two ministries, noting that "environmental protection ultimately takes place within communities."
"Having served together in Parliament for quite a while, I know that the relationship between the two of you is very good. I expect you both to work closely together," he said.
He further directed them to work cooperatively with colleague ministers and other public officers, adding that "government succeeds when its institutions collaborate, not when ministries operate as isolated entities."
The President reminded the appointees that the Ghanaian people expect results, integrity, accessibility and accountability.
"Be firm when firmness is required, but always remember to remain humble. Listen to professional advice, respect institutions under your leadership and ensure that public resources are managed prudently," he said.
Ayariga's Response
In response on behalf of his colleague, Mr Ayariga thanked the President for the confidence reposed in them, assuring that they would work to realise the commitments made to Ghanaians in his promise to reset the country.
"Your style of governance and your style of relating to ordinary Ghanaians is going to be our guide as to how we conduct ourselves," he said.
He pledged that the ordinary Ghanaian shall be at the forefront of everything they do, assuring that "our cities, our Municipalities, our Metropolises, our Districts, our zones and our units will be better governed under your leadership."
Mr Ayariga noted that he brings to the job the experience of having served as former Minister for Environment, making it easier to understand areas where collaboration with his colleague is required.
"We will surmount what is considered insurmountable in the restoration of our environment and we will not disappoint you," Mr Ayariga assured the President.
