Mahama Ayariga, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings sworn in as ministers

President John Dramani Mahama has sworn in Mahama Ayariga and Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings as ministers following their approval by Parliament.

The swearing-in ceremony took place on Saturday, August 29, 2026, marking the formal commencement of their duties in their respective ministries.

The constitutional ceremony followed Parliament’s unanimous approval of the two nominees after they successfully appeared before the Appointments Committee for vetting.

On Friday, August 27, Parliament approved Mahama Ayariga as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology.

Their approval cleared the final parliamentary hurdle for President Mahama to formally appoint them to the positions and administer the required constitutional oaths.

At the ceremony on Saturday, the President formally administered the Oath of Office, Oath of Secrecy and Oath of Allegiance to the two ministers, paving the way for them to officially assume their responsibilities.

Mahama Ayariga’s portfolio places him at the centre of several important areas of national governance, including decentralisation, local government administration, chieftaincy affairs and engagement with traditional and religious institutions.

During his vetting on August 27, Ayariga outlined some of his priorities for the ministry, including improving cooperation between Members of Parliament and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs).

Ayariga also assured the Mamprugu Traditional Council and the people of Ghana that he would remain fair and impartial in the discharge of his duties, despite his personal connections to the Mamprugu traditional area.

Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawling also assumes responsibility for a ministry with a broad mandate covering environmental protection, scientific research, technological development and policies aimed at promoting sustainable development.

As Environment, Science and Technology Minister, Dr Zanetor is expected to work with relevant agencies, researchers, industry stakeholders and development partners to advance policies within the sector.