In a press release issued on Thursday, January 16, 2025, the President of the Republic, John Dramani Mahama, has submitted a second batch of nominations for Regional and Sector Ministers to Parliament through the Speaker.

These appointments, if approved, are expected to strengthen the governance structure and enhance policy delivery in various sectors.

Regional Ministers

1. Wilbert Petty Brentum – Western North Region
2. Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere – Central Region
3. Joseph Nelson – Western Region

Ministers of State

1. Kwame Governs Agbodza (MP) – Ministry of Roads and Highways
2. Eric Opoku (MP) – Ministry of Food and Agriculture
3. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey (MP) – Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection
4. Abla Dzifa Gomashie (MP) – Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts
5. Emelia Arthur (MP) – Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture
6. George Opare-Addo – Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment
7. Haruna Iddrisu (MP) – Ministry of Education
8. Ahmed Ibrahim (MP) – Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs
9. Elizabeth Ofosu Adjare (MP) – Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry

Profiles of Key Nominees

1. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey (MP) – A seasoned legislator with over 20 years of experience in governance, health, and education. Dr. Lartey, holding a Ph.D. in African Studies, has demonstrated leadership as General Secretary of NALAG and through advocacy for women’s rights and community development.
2. Emelia Arthur (MP) – An expert in local governance and natural resource management, she has worked with organizations like USAID and IUCN. She holds academic credentials from Yale University and GIMPA, focusing on inclusive development.
3. Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere – A two-term MP for Gomoa East and educationist with over two decades of experience. He has led initiatives to empower artisans and apprentices through his role as Executive Director of the Centre for Artisan and Apprentice Development.
4. George Opare-Addo – A lawyer and experienced political organizer. As National Youth Organizer of the NDC since 2018, he has mentored numerous young leaders and is a former MCE for Akuapem North.
5. Joseph Nelson – An economist with extensive international and local experience. Mr. Nelson holds multiple advanced degrees and has served as Regional Director for the Youth Employment Agency.
6. Hon. Haruna Iddrisu (MP) – A prominent politician and lawyer with over two decades in Ghana’s Parliament. Having served in various ministerial positions, Haruna is known for his expertise in education and communication.
7. Mr. Wilbert Petty Brentum – An accomplished politician and mining expert, Mr. Wilbert Petty Brentum is also a chartered accountant and local government professional. With decades of experience, he has excelled in technical, managerial, and regulatory roles within the mining industry. Additionally, he has contributed to governance as an Assembly Member in the Juaboso Electoral Area of the Juaboso District.

The nominations signal the President’s commitment to assembling a team with diverse expertise to deliver on national priorities. Parliament is expected to vet and confirm the nominees in the coming weeks.

Story By: Robicon Mornahson