The ministry conceives of maintaining development through the use of science, technology and innovation for economic growth and healthy external conditions through advanced and a well-structured economy.[1]
Mission
The purpose of this ministry is to sustain growth by putting up measures to strengthen market aimed research and development (R&D) for appropriate external conditions, science, technology and innovation through massive cognizance conception, partnership and team work.[1]
HISTORY OF THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT,SCIENCE,TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION(MESTI)[2]
The Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI) in Ghana was established in 1994 to integrate environmental sustainability, scientific advancement, and technological innovation into national development. Over the decades, MESTI has undergone significant institutional restructuring, reflecting the evolving priorities of the Ghanaian government.[3]
It is located at Ministries, Accra, Greater Accra, Ghana
Postal Address: P.O.Box M232, Accra, Ghana
Digital Address: GA-107-3073
Phone Numbers: +233 302-662626| +233 030-963659
Key Milestones and Restructuring
1994 (Establishment): MESTI was originally created in response to Agenda 21, the global sustainable development action plan that emerged from the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro.[4]
Early Reorganization: The technology portfolio was temporarily moved to the Ministry of Communications, and the agency was subsequently reconstituted as the Ministry of Environment and Science (MES).[5]
2009 (Re-establishment): Under Executive Instrument (E.I.) 7, the government recognized the need for a unified policy framework. The sectors were consolidated once again into the ministry of Environment, Science and Technology(MEST).[6]
2013 to Present: The Ministry was officially renamed to the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI) under Executive Instrument 1 to better reflect the nation's.[7]
The intensification of the application of safe and sound environmental practices;
The development and promotion of a science and technology culture at all levels of society.
To enhance the protection of forests
Strengthen the fights against climate change
Enhance laws to protect waterbodies
Combact environmental pollutionTrees make environment looks beautiful and provide shadeThe development of the sector's institutionalized delivery capacities in human resource management, infrastructure and plant/equipment through appropriate policies and legislation.
The promotion of public demand for science and technology products and services;
The encouragement and strengthening of compliance of human settlements standards in communities;
The strengthening of linkages with local and international collaborating agencies;
The promotion, co-ordination and evaluation of research and development activities;[9]
How These Objectives Are Achieved
MESTI implements these goals by collaborating with its specialized agencies. For instance, the EPA enforces environmental compliance, while the CSIR conducts the industrial research needed to upgrade local technologies.Ghana Space Science and Technology Centre
Functions
Encourage actions required to support the measures and policies needed for projecting and carrying out sound scientific and technological development actions;
Ascertain the classification, monitoring, rating and to supervise the activities of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation while seeing to the economic benefits.
Ensure appropriate and efficient environmental direction and administration.
Ensure the appropriate management of all planned programs and see to budgets in the area of environment, science, technology and innovation sector of the economy for aims of attaining a unified management system.[10]
CORE VALUES OF THE MINISTRY
Integrity
Client Satisfaction
Gender Equity
Professionalism
Teamwork
LAWS PASSED UNDER THE MINISTRY
Environmental Protection Act, 2025(Act 1124): this law transitioned the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) into an Authority, allowing it expand regulatory powers to enforce strict industrial emissions, manage hazardous waste and establish the Ghana Carbon Registry for climate action.[11]
Hazardous and Electronic Waste Control and Management Act, 2016(Act917): it provides the regulatory framework for the control,safe management and disposal of hazardous waste and e-waste, helping to protect human health and the environment.[12]
National Plastic Management Policy (2020):Implemented under MESTI to govern and systematically reduce plastic pollution alongside the Plastic Waste Management Regulation(2019), although it is more of a policy than a parliamentary act.[13]
Water Resources Commission Act (Act 522):it empowers the water resources commission to regulate and manage water resources in Ghana.[14][15]
Maritime Pollution Act, 2016 (Act 932): This law regulates and prevents maritime pollution, enforcing standards to care and protect Ghana's coastal ecosystems and oceans.[16][17]
