By Adnan Adams Mohammed
Newly appointed Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has outlined a firm agenda to combat illegal mining (galamsey), environmental degradation, and pollution, pledging to confront Ghana’s pressing ecological crises through “courage, innovation, collaboration,” and “decisive action.”
In her inaugural policy statement upon assuming office, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings warned that the nation’s natural assets must be preserved for future generations rather than exploited for short-term gain.
“The challenges before us are significant. Managing climate change, environmental degradation, illegal mining, waste management, pollution and the sustainable use of our natural resources require courage, innovation, collaboration and above all, decisive action,” Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings stated.
“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.”
Bridging Research and Commercial Enterprise
Outlining her strategic direction for the ministry, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings emphasized the need to translate scientific research and technology into concrete economic opportunities, industrial capacity, and job creation across key sectors.
“Science, technology and innovation can unlock a new chapter in Ghana’s development,” she remarked. “Our research must move beyond academia into practical partnerships between government, the private sector, civil society, communities and universities with a focus on creating jobs, strengthening industry, improving agriculture and healthcare, and building a more innovative and competitive economy.”
A Call for Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration
Addressing the broader public, civil society, and scientific community, the Minister called for national solidarity and active partnership to drive environmental reform and commercial research adoption.
“I will listen, I will learn and I will engage, working with the many talented Ghanaians who believe in our country’s potential – our scientists, researchers, innovators, environmentalists, institutions, businesses and communities,” she added. “The ultimate measure of public office is not the position we occupy, but the lives we touch and the difference we make.”
Expressing gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for the appointment, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings reaffirmed her commitment to managing the sector with integrity and long-term vision to safeguard Ghana’s natural heritage and economic future.
