Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings pledges environment-first approach at MEST

Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings has pledged to align science, technology and innovation with environmental protection as she officially assumed office as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology (MEST).

Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, who also serves as Member of Parliament for Klottey-Korle, emphasized that Ghana’s development must not come at the expense of the environment.

She stressed that both government and citizens have a constitutional duty to safeguard the environment, calling for stronger collaboration to achieve sustainable national growth.

Speaking at a brief handover ceremony in Accra, the new minister highlighted the growing global threat of climate change and environmental degradation, noting that Ghana must take decisive steps to address these challenges.

“We bring alive the core principles and mandate of this ministry. Science, technology and innovation must work hand in hand, but not at the expense of our environment,” she stated.

Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, who served as acting MEST Minister and is also the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, formally handed over the ministry, expressing confidence in her leadership.

He noted that her contributions to Parliament’s environment and science committee demonstrate her readiness for the role, adding that she is well-suited to steer the ministry toward achieving its mandate.

The new MEST Minister assured staff of an inclusive leadership style, promising teamwork, transparency, accountability and prudent management of public resources.

She further urged ministry officials to uphold discipline and professionalism, stressing that success would depend on collective effort rather than individual interests.

The ceremony marks a transition in leadership at a time when environmental concerns and climate action remain high on Ghana’s national agenda.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith