The Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has officially assumed office as the new Minister of Science and Environment, pledging to pursue transformational policies aimed at addressing Ghana’s environmental challenges.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings made the commitment during a handing-over ceremony at the Ministry, where she took over from the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, who served as the acting minister.
The new minister called for collective action, discipline, transparency and accountability in efforts to address the country’s growing environmental concerns.
She said Ghana must pursue positive transformation in environmental management while also ensuring that the country’s efforts contribute meaningfully to global initiatives aimed at tackling environmental degradation and climate-related challenges.
According to Dr Agyeman-Rawlings, protecting the environment should not be viewed as the responsibility of government alone, but as a shared duty involving institutions, communities, civil society organisations, the private sector and individual citizens.
She stressed that government, however, has a critical responsibility to provide leadership and implement policies that will promote sustainable environmental practices and protect the country’s natural resources for future generations.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings said the ministry would require the collective expertise, ideas and commitment of all relevant stakeholders to develop practical and sustainable solutions to Ghana’s environmental problems.
She therefore called for stronger collaboration among institutions and stakeholders working within the environmental sector.
The minister noted that challenges such as environmental degradation and climate change require coordinated and long-term interventions.
She stressed that a strong sense of togetherness and cooperation would be critical to achieving lasting progress.
Beyond environmental management, Dr Agyeman-Rawlings also highlighted the need for discipline and responsible stewardship in the management of public resources.
She urged public officials and institutions under the ministry to uphold the highest standards of transparency and accountability in the use of taxpayers’ money.
According to her, public resources must be managed responsibly and used strictly in the interest of Ghanaians.
“Accountability should remain a key principle in the work of government,” she said.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings pledged to work closely with relevant institutions, communities and other stakeholders to advance Ghana’s environmental agenda.
She said her leadership would focus on building partnerships and promoting innovative and sustainable approaches to addressing environmental challenges.
As she officially begins her tenure, the new Minister of Science and Environment faces the task of working with stakeholders to strengthen environmental governance, address the effects of climate change and promote sustainable development.
Her appointment comes at a time when Ghana continues to grapple with challenges including environmental degradation, pollution, illegal mining and the increasing impact of climate change on communities and livelihoods.
By Joseph Armstrong Gold-Alorgbey
