Ghanaian President John Mahama has appointed Kenneth Gilbert Adjei as the country’s new defence minister, nearly a year after the death of his predecessor in a military helicopter crash.
Adjei, 47, previously served as housing minister and was deputy defence minister between 2015 and 2017 during Mahama’s earlier administration.
He replaces Edward Omane Boamah, who died alongside other officials in a military helicopter crash in August 2025.
The appointment comes as Ghana strengthens its security leadership amid growing regional threats linked to instability in the Sahel, cross-border crime and maritime security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea.
Adjei’s nomination formed part of a broader cabinet reshuffle announced by President Mahama, which also included appointments to the environment, science and technology, and local government ministries.
The changes are expected to reinforce the government’s efforts to address national security concerns while advancing development priorities across key sectors.
Ghana has increasingly focused on improving border security and regional cooperation as insecurity in neighbouring Sahel countries continues to pose risks to West African nations.
The new defence minister is expected to oversee the country’s military strategy, strengthen cooperation with regional partners and support ongoing efforts to enhance national security and stability in the face of evolving threats.