Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings thanks Mahama after appointment as Environment Minister, pledges stewardship and innovation*

The Member of Parliament for Klottey-Korle, Hon. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has expressed profound gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama following her appointment as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology.

In a statement after her appointment, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings said she does not take the responsibility lightly, describing public service as a call to duty, sacrifice and stewardship.

"First and foremost, I give thanks to Almighty God, whose grace, guidance and providence have brought me this far," she said.

"I am grateful to H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, for the confidence reposed in me through my appointment as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology. I sincerely thank the President for his trust and for the opportunity to contribute to Ghana's transformation in an area so critical to our national development," she added.

Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings said science, technology and innovation hold the key to unlocking a new chapter in Ghana's development, stressing the need for research to move beyond academia into practical partnerships between government, the private sector, civil society, communities and universities.

According to her, such collaboration should focus on creating jobs, strengthening industry, improving agriculture and healthcare, and building a more innovative and competitive economy.

She acknowledged the significant challenges ahead, including climate change, environmental degradation, illegal mining, waste management, pollution and the sustainable use of natural resources, which she said require courage, innovation, collaboration and decisive action.

"I see our environment not as a resource to exploit, but as an inheritance entrusted to our care. We are stewards with a duty to protect our flora and fauna, water bodies, land, air and natural resources, holding them in trust for this generation and for posterity," she noted.

The new minister said she comes into the role with a deep sense of responsibility and an unwavering commitment to serve, promising to listen, learn and engage with scientists, researchers, innovators, environmentalists, institutions, businesses and communities.

"Together, we are stewards of what has been entrusted to us, and I will work with others to protect what we have, unlock its potential responsibly, and leave a stronger, more sustainable Ghana for generations to come," she stated.