President John Dramani Mahama has sworn into office two new Ministers of State at the Jubilee House in Accra, urging them to serve Ghanaians with integrity, humility, and fairness. Former Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, took the oath as Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, while Dr. Zanetor Agyeman‑Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Korle‑Klottey, was sworn in as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology.
The brief but solemn ceremony was attended by Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku‑Agyemang, Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Debrah, ministers of state, and other 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 stressed that public office is a privilege, not a right, and requires placing national interest above personal convenience, political considerations, and sectional interests.
Addressing Mr. Ayariga directly, the President noted that he assumes his portfolio at a critical stage in the nation’s development, bringing considerable experience as a legislator, lawyer, and former Minister of State, having previously served in the Ministries of Youth and Sports and Environment, Science and Technology.
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. 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. 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 necessary, but always remember to stay humble. Listen to professional advice, respect the institutions under your leadership, and ensure that public resources are managed wisely,” he said. In response, on behalf of his colleague, Mr. Ayariga thanked the President for the confidence placed in them.
He assured that they would work to fulfil the commitments made to Ghanaians in the promise to reset the country. “Your style of governance and your approach to relating to ordinary Ghanaians will guide us in how we conduct ourselves,” he stated. Mr. Ayariga pledged that the needs of the ordinary Ghanaian would 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.”
He also noted that his experience as a former Minister for Environment would help him understand where collaboration with his colleagues is needed. “We will overcome what is considered insurmountable in restoring our environment, and we will not disappoint you,” Mr. Ayariga assured the President.
