Hon. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei has officially assumed office as Ghana’s new Minister for Defence following a formal handing-over ceremony at the Ministry of Defence in Accra.
The ceremony marked the official transfer of responsibility to Mr Adjei, who takes charge of the ministry at a time the government is seeking to strengthen Ghana’s defence and national security architecture.
The Deputy Minister of Defence, Hon. Ernest Yaw Brogya Genfi, welcomed the new minister and pledged his support for his leadership.
In a message following the ceremony, Mr Brogya Genfi described the transition as the beginning of a “new chapter” for the Ministry of Defence and expressed his readiness to work alongside Mr Adjei.
“Welcome home Boss. I am proud to serve alongside you as your Deputy Minister and I am even more proud to support your leadership,” he said.
The Deputy Minister said Mr Adjei’s experience would be valuable in advancing the vision of President and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, John Dramani Mahama.
Mr Brogya Genfi also expressed appreciation to the outgoing Acting Defence Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, for his service and leadership during his tenure.
He commended Dr Ato Forson for what he described as his calm leadership and collaborative approach, which he said contributed to a smooth transition.
“Your calm leadership and collaboration made this transition seamless. It has been a great working relationship and I am grateful,” he said.
Mr Brogya Genfi subsequently urged the Chief Director, Chief of the Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, Forces Sergeant Major, personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces, as well as management and staff of the ministry, to maintain high standards and remain committed to excellence in the performance of their duties.
Mr Kenneth Gilbert Adjei was appointed Defence Minister two weeks ago as part of a ministerial reshuffle announced by President Mahama.
Prior to his new appointment, he served as Minister for Works and Housing.
His assumption of office formally brings to an end Dr Ato Forson’s tenure as Acting Minister for Defence, allowing him to return his full attention to his substantive responsibilities as Finance Minister.
