A swearing-in ceremony took place on August 26 at the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology (MEST) to introduce the newly appointed Governing Board Members of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC).
Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Acting Minister for MEST and Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, presided over the ceremony on behalf of President John Mahama. During the event, the members took oaths of office and secrecy as guiding principles in carrying out their responsibilities.
The seven-member Governing Board is led by Prof. Abdulai Baba Salifu, with other members including Prof. Francis Gbogbo, Dr. Sena Akosua Yvonne Loh, Prof. Langbong Bimi, Suweibatu Adam (Chief Director of MEST), Albert Quashigah, and Prof. Samuel Boakye Dampare (Director-General of GAEC).
Addressing the Board, the Acting Minister highlighted the importance of their role in Ghana’s Nuclear Power Programme, which is progressing through Phase II of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) three-phased approach. This initiative aims to establish a nuclear power plant to diversify the country’s energy sources.
Mr. Buah emphasized the need for the Commission to meet international nuclear safety and regulatory standards in collaboration with the IAEA. He also mentioned ongoing policy processes to review the GAEC Act (Act 508) to enhance the Commission’s effectiveness.
The Acting Minister urged the Board to address encroachment on GAEC lands, which are essential for the Commission’s operations and future expansion of Ghana’s nuclear programme. He encouraged the Board to strengthen research collaborations, promote innovation in nuclear technology applications, and ensure GAEC remains a center of excellence in nuclear science and technology in Africa.
In response, Chairman Prof. Abdulai Baba Salifu expressed gratitude to the President for their appointment and pledged the Board’s commitment to advancing GAEC’s vision. He outlined plans to establish a health facility specializing in nuclear technologies for treating non-communicable diseases and reiterated support for building Ghana’s first nuclear power plant.
The ceremony was attended by GAEC management and staff, including Deputy Director-General Prof. Francis Hasford, Director of Administration William Srekumah, Deputy Director of Finance Eli Aniabo, and other key personnel.
Overall, the swearing-in ceremony marked an important milestone for GAEC, highlighting the Commission’s dedication to advancing nuclear science and technology in Ghana. The Board’s commitment to excellence and innovation will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the country’s nuclear energy sector.
