Excerpt
The Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI) is a pivotal institution within the Government of Ghana, dedicated to fostering sustainable development through the integration of environmental stewardship, scientific research, technological advancement, and innovation.
Historical Background
Established in 1993 as the Ministry of Environment and Science (MES), the institution has undergone several transformations. In 2006, it was dissolved, with its environmental and science portfolios reassigned to the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Education, respectively. However, in 2009, it was reconstituted and named the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology (MEST) under Executive Instrument (E.I) 7 Civil Service (Ministries) Instrument, 2009. Subsequently, it evolved into its current form, MESTI, reflecting an expanded focus that includes innovation.
Constitutional Mandates
MESTI’s core mandate is to ensure accelerated socio-economic development through the formulation of sound policies and regulatory frameworks. These initiatives promote the adoption of environmentally friendly, scientific, and technological practices across various sectors of the economy.
Leadership and Organizational Structure
The ministry is led by a Minister, supported by a Deputy Minister. As of the latest available information, the Minister is Kwaku Afriyie, with Patricia Appiagyei serving as the Deputy Minister. The organizational structure comprises several directorates, including:
- General Administration
- Policy, Planning, Monitoring & Evaluation
- Research, Statistics & Information Management
- Human Resource Development & Management
- Science, Technology & Innovation
- Environment
- Finance
- Procurement and Supply Chain
Additionally, specialized units such as Internal Audit, Public Affairs, and the Right to Information (RTI) Unit support the ministry’s functions.
Mode of Appointment and Recruitment
Appointments within MESTI are conducted in accordance with Ghana’s civil service procedures. Leadership positions, including the Minister and Deputy Minister, are political appointments made by the President of Ghana, subject to parliamentary approval. Other roles within the ministry are filled through standard civil service recruitment processes, which emphasize merit and qualifications.
Affiliated Agencies
MESTI collaborates with several agencies to fulfil its mandate:
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR):
- Focuses on scientific and industrial research for national development.
Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC):
- Oversees the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
- Responsible for environmental regulation and enforcement.
Land Use & Spatial Planning Authority:
- Manages land use and spatial planning activities.
National Biosafety Authority:
- Regulates biotechnology and biosafety matters.
Nuclear Regulatory Authority, Ghana:
- Ensures the safe use of nuclear materials and radiation.
Partners and Stakeholders
MESTI engages with a diverse array of partners, including governmental bodies, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, the private sector, and academic institutions. These collaborations aim to promote sustainable environmental practices, scientific research, technological innovation, and the application of science and technology in various sectors.
Operations and Key Functions
The ministry’s primary functions encompass:
- Providing leadership and guidance for environment, science, technology, and innovation through sound policy formulation and implementation.
- Establishing regulatory frameworks and setting standards to govern scientific and technological activities and environmental management for sustainable development.
- Promoting activities that support the standards and policies required for planning and implementing sound scientific and technological development programs.
- Ensuring efficient environmental management and administration.
- Overseeing the management of planned programs and budgets in the areas of environment, science, technology, and innovation to achieve a unified management system.
Historical Reforms
- Throughout its history, MESTI has undergone significant reforms to enhance its effectiveness. The dissolution in 2006 and subsequent reconstitution in 2009 reflect efforts to streamline its functions and improve service delivery. These reforms have aimed to align the ministry’s structure and focus with national development priorities and global best practices.
Reference
- https://mesti.gov.gh/about-us/
- https://mesti.gov.gh/profile/
- https://mesti.gov.gh/organizational-structure/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ministry_of_Environment%2C_Science%2C_Technology_and_Innovation
- https://mesti.gov.gh/functions/
- https://www.developmentaid.org/donors/view/149868/ministry-of-environment-science-technology-and-innovation-ghana
- https://mesti.gov.gh/org_final/
- https://www.devex.com/organizations/ministry-of-environment-science-and-technology-ghana-134430
- https://www.devex.com/organizations/ministry-of-environment-science-technology-and-innovation-ghana-148904
- https://www.dbsa.org/sites/default/files/media/documents/2021-05/Chapter%2011%20Ghana.pdf
Official Public Address (MESTI)
- Address: Post Office Box M232 Ministries, Accra, Ghana
- Digital Address: GA-107-3073
- Phone: +233 302-662626 | +233 303-963 459
- Email:info@mesti.gov.gh