ACCRA, GHANA — The Presidency announced on Friday, 7 August 2026, the nomination of Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings as the Minister-nominee for Environment, Science and Technology (MEST). The announcement was contained in a formal statement issued by the Spokesperson to the President and Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.

In accordance with constitutional requirements, the nomination has been formally communicated to the Speaker of Parliament. Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings will appear before the Appointments Committee of Parliament for vetting, after which the plenary will vote on the recommendation for her prior approval.

Professional and Parliamentary Profile

Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings is a medical doctor by profession, having earned her qualifications from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI). She practiced medicine in both Ireland and Ghana prior to her entry into public service.

Since January 2017, she has served as the Member of Parliament for the Korle Klottey constituency in the Greater Accra Region. Currently serving her third term in the 9th Parliament, she holds the position of Chairperson of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Security and Intelligence. Her other current committee assignments include the Committee on Gender and Children and the Committee on Defence and Interior.

Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings brings prior experience with the sector to this nomination, having previously served as a member of Parliament’s Select Committee on Environment, Science and Technology.

Continental Leadership

On 30 April 2026, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings was elected Second Vice-President of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) Bureau, representing the West African region. This election followed her swearing-in as a member of Ghana’s delegation to the continental legislative body in July 2025.

Institutional Continuity and Context

The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST) is the principal state institution responsible for environmental governance, the formulation of science and technology policy, and the coordination of research and regulatory frameworks.

The nomination follows the vacancy created by the passing of the late Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed in August 2025. Since that time, the portfolio has been under the acting oversight of Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources.

Throughout the constitutional transition period, the Ministry’s civil service administration, directorates, and agencies—including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)—continue to execute all approved government programmes and statutory responsibilities without interruption.

The Constitutional Process

Per Article 78(1) of the 1992 Constitution, the appointment of a Minister of State is subject to the prior approval of Parliament. Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings remains a Minister-nominee until the completion of the parliamentary vetting process, the subsequent approval by the House, and the administration of the official oath of office by the President.

The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology will continue to provide the necessary institutional support throughout the constitutional process and looks forward to the conclusion of Parliament’s deliberations.