The newly constituted Governing Board of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has been sworn into office with a mandate to steer the nation’s nuclear power programme and strengthen the Commission’s role in energy diversification and scientific innovation.
The swearing-in ceremony took place on August 26 at the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST). It was presided over by Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Acting Minister for MEST and Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, who represented President John Dramani Mahama.
Mr. Buah administered the oaths of office and secrecy, urging the appointees to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
Composition of the Board
The seven-member Governing Board is chaired by Prof. Abdulai Baba Salifu. Other members include:
• Prof. Francis Gbogbo
• Dr. Sena Akosua Yvonne Loh
• Prof. Langbong Bimi
• Suweibatu Adam, Chief Director of MEST
• Albert Quashigah
• Prof. Samuel Boakye Dampare, Director-General of GAEC
Advancing Ghana’s Nuclear Agenda
In his address, the Acting Minister described the Board’s appointment as timely, noting that Ghana’s Nuclear Power Programme is currently progressing through Phase II of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) three-stage roadmap. This phase is critical to Ghana’s goal of establishing its first nuclear power plant to boost energy security and diversify supply.
“Your commitment to ensuring that the Commission meets international nuclear safety and regulatory standards is crucial, as Ghana works closely with the IAEA to advance this ambitious national project,” Mr. Buah said.
He further disclosed that the government is reviewing the GAEC Act (Act 508) to enhance the Commission’s capacity and impact, calling on the Board to actively support the process with “urgency and fresh ideas.”
Land Protection and Innovation
The Acting Minister also drew attention to encroachment on GAEC lands, describing them as “critical national assets” that host strategic research, training, and nuclear facilities. He stressed that safeguarding these lands is essential for ongoing projects and the long-term expansion of Ghana’s nuclear programme.
He encouraged the Board to strengthen research collaborations and promote the peaceful application of nuclear technology in health, agriculture, industry, and environmental management, positioning GAEC as a centre of excellence in nuclear science and technology on the African continent.
Board’s Commitment
On behalf of the members, Board Chairman Prof. Abdulai Baba Salifu expressed appreciation to the President for the trust reposed in them. He pledged the Board’s full commitment to GAEC’s vision and announced plans to establish a specialised health facility focused on nuclear technologies for the treatment of non-communicable diseases. He also reaffirmed the Commission’s support for efforts to build Ghana’s first nuclear power plant.
Ceremony Attendance
The ceremony was attended by GAEC management and staff, including:
• Prof. Francis Hasford, Deputy Director-General
• William Srekumah, Director of Administration
• Eli Aniabo, Deputy Director of Finance
• Dr. Theodosia Adom, Director, Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute
• Madam Susana Nyarkoa Addo, Head of Legal Affairs
• Dr. Mark Kwasi Sarfo and Mr. Joshua Yeboah, Commercialisation and Communication Directorate
