Mahama swears in Ayariga, Zanetor as ministers

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

The ceremony, held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, formally marked the beginning of their duties in their respective ministries.

Parliament approved Ayariga as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology on Friday, August 27, after both nominees successfully went through the Appointments Committee’s vetting process.

Their approval paved the way for President Mahama to complete the constitutional requirements for their appointment.

At the swearing-in ceremony, the President administered the Oath of Office, Oath of Secrecy and Oath of Allegiance to the two ministers, formally clearing them to assume their responsibilities.

As Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ayariga will oversee key areas including decentralisation, local government administration, chieftaincy matters and relations with traditional and religious institutions.

During his vetting, Ayariga identified improved collaboration between Members of Parliament and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) as one of his priorities.

He also pledged to perform his duties fairly and impartially, despite his personal ties to the Mamprugu traditional area, assuring the Mamprugu Traditional Council and the wider Ghanaian public of his commitment to neutrality.

Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings takes charge of a ministry responsible for environmental protection, scientific research, technological advancement and policies promoting sustainable development.

In her new role as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, she is expected to collaborate with government agencies, researchers, industry players and development partners to advance policies and initiatives across the sector.