Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Kenneth Gilbert Adjei as the country’s new Minister of Defence as part of a cabinet reshuffle aimed at strengthening the government’s security leadership and maintaining policy continuity.

The appointment was announced by the presidency on Friday and forms part of broader adjustments within Mahama’s administration as it responds to national security, governance, and economic priorities.

Experienced Hand Returns to Defence

Adjei previously served as Deputy Minister of Defence between 2015 and 2017, giving him prior experience in military administration and security affairs. Before the reshuffle, he was serving as Minister for Works and Housing.

His return to the defence portfolio is expected to provide continuity at a time when West African governments remain focused on border security, regional stability, and cooperation against transnational threats.

Recent Changes in the Ministry

The reshuffle follows recent leadership changes within the defence ministry. Until the new appointment takes effect, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson had been overseeing the ministry in an acting capacity.

Government officials say the new appointment is intended to ensure stable leadership in one of Ghana’s most important ministries, which is responsible for the Ghana Armed Forces, national defence policy, military welfare, and international security cooperation.

Security Priorities Remain Central

Analysts expect Adjei to focus on military readiness, personnel welfare, border management, peacekeeping operations, and security challenges linked to illegal mining activities, which have become an increasing concern in parts of Ghana.

The ministry is also expected to continue working closely with regional and international partners, including institutions involved in peacekeeping training and security cooperation across West Africa.

Parliamentary Approval Required

Under Ghana’s Constitution, ministerial nominees must undergo parliamentary vetting and approval before they can be formally sworn into office. Parliament is expected to consider the nomination in the coming days.

The presidency has not yet announced who will replace Adjei at the Works and Housing Ministry.

The cabinet reshuffle is being closely watched as President Mahama continues shaping his administration’s security, governance, and economic agenda amid ongoing regional security pressures and domestic development challenges.

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