Overview
The Registrar General’s Department (RGD) of Ghana is a pivotal government agency responsible for the registration and regulation of various entities, including businesses, marriages, industrial properties, and estates. Below is an overview of its history, leadership, structure, and key functions.
History
Established in 1950 under the Ordinance during the colonial era, the RGD became a department of the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General in 1961.
Over the years, it has evolved to accommodate the growing administrative and economic needs of Ghana, reflecting the increasing complexity of the nation’s economic and administrative landscape.
Leadership
The RGD operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General. The department is headed by the Registrar-General, who oversees its operations and ensures compliance with relevant laws and regulations. The Registrar-General is supported by a team of deputies and departmental heads responsible for various divisions within the organization.
Structure
The organizational structure of the RGD comprises several key divisions, each tasked with specific responsibilities:
Business Registration Division:
- Handles the incorporation and registration of companies, partnerships, and sole proprietorships, providing legal recognition to business entities operating in Ghana.
Industrial Property Division:
- Manages the registration of intellectual property rights, including trademarks, patents, and industrial designs, safeguarding the creations and innovations of individuals and businesses.
Estate Administration Division:
- Oversees the administration of estates of deceased persons, ensuring the proper distribution of assets in accordance with the law.
Marriage Registration Division:
- Responsible for the registration of marriages under various legal regimes, including the Marriage Ordinance and customary marriages, ensuring legal recognition and documentation.
Public Trusts Division:
- Manages the registration and regulation of public trusts, ensuring they operate within the legal framework established by the government.