President John Dramani Mahama has sworn in five newly approved ministers at a ceremony held at the Jubilee House on Friday evening, January 24, 2025.
This marks the second batch of ministerial appointments, bringing the total number of ministers sworn into office to 11.
The newly sworn-in ministers are:
• Abla Dzifa Gomashie – Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts
• George Opare Addo – Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment
• Emelia Arthur – Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development
• Ahmed Ibrahim – Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs
• Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare – Minister for Trade, Industry, and Agribusiness
Their appointments were approved by Parliament on Thursday, January 23, following a rigorous vetting process and extensive debates held on January 21 and 22.
In his address during the swearing-in ceremony, President Mahama emphasised the critical responsibilities entrusted to the appointees. “Ghanaians have signaled zero tolerance for poor governance. You must prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in serving the people,” the President stated. He charged the ministers to deliver on their mandates with urgency and commitment, stressing that the expectations of Ghanaians are high.
“It will not be business as usual,” President Mahama cautioned. “The people demand quick action after enduring poor governance over the last eight years. All eyes will be on you, and I have confidence in your abilities to rise to the occasion.”
The President also highlighted his administration’s focus on fairness and inclusivity in appointments. He revealed that women now constitute 27% of his government, with 20 out of 75 appointees being women. This brings his government closer to the 30% target set under the Affirmative Action Act, with assurances that the remaining 3% will be achieved in subsequent appointments.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, expressed gratitude to the President for the trust placed in them. He pledged their collective commitment to working diligently to address the challenges in their respective sectors and to achieve the government’s vision for national development.
The swearing-in ceremony, in accordance with Article 78(1) of the 1992 Constitution, included the administration of the Oath of Allegiance, Oath of Office, and Oath of Secrecy. The ministers received their Instruments of Office from the President, signifying the official start of their duties.
This latest batch of appointments reflects the President’s determination to reset the nation’s governance and deliver results that will improve the lives of Ghanaians.
