In a significant political shift, Deputy Energy Minister Andrew Egyapa Mercer has been reassigned to lead Ghana’s Tourism Ministry. Mercer, who is also the Member of Parliament (MP) for Sekondi, has an extensive background in law and corporate governance. His journey began at Chapel Hill Preparatory School in Takoradi, leading to Adisadel College in Cape Coast, where he obtained both his GCE Ordinary and Advanced level certificates. Mercer then attended the University of Ghana, earning degrees in Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Bachelor of Laws, followed by a qualification from the Ghana School of Law. To further bolster his expertise, he obtained a certificate in Oil, Gas, and Mining Governance from the prestigious University of Oxford’s Blavatnik School of Government.
Mercer’s legal career started at Messrs. Acquah-Sampson & Associates, a firm of solicitors in Accra. He then joined First Atlantic Bank in 2007, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become the Head of the Legal Division, overseeing the Legal, Company Secretarial, and Corporate Affairs Departments. Mercer first ventured into politics in 2011, contesting the parliamentary primaries in Sekondi. Though he lost to incumbent Papa Owusu Ankomah, his determination did not wane. In 2013, he left First Atlantic Bank to establish Messrs. Mercer & Company, a corporate and investment law firm. His second attempt at the parliamentary primaries in 2015 was successful, and he won the seat for the Sekondi constituency in 2016.
As an MP, Mercer has been an active member of several parliamentary committees, including the Constitutional, Legal & Parliamentary Affairs, the Privileges, and the Special Budget Committees. His contributions have been pivotal in shaping legislative policies and governance frameworks in Ghana. Additionally, he served on the Communications Committee of Parliament and the board of the Ghana National Gas Company, highlighting his versatility and commitment to public service.
Mercer’s role as the Deputy Minister for Energy showcased his ability to navigate complex sectors and drive impactful policies. His tenure was characterized by efforts to enhance Ghana’s energy infrastructure and promote sustainable energy practices. His legal and corporate background provided a solid foundation for his work in the energy sector, where he played a key role in regulatory and policy development.
Now at the helm of the Tourism Ministry, Mercer faces the challenge of revitalizing and promoting Ghana’s tourism, arts, and culture. His diverse experience and proven leadership abilities position him well to bring innovative strategies to the ministry. The tourism sector, crucial for Ghana’s economic growth and cultural heritage, stands to benefit from Mercer’s dynamic approach and strategic vision.
Andrew Egyapa Mercer’s transition from the Energy Ministry to the Tourism Ministry marks a new chapter in his illustrious career. As he takes on the new role, stakeholders in the tourism industry and the wider public will be keenly observing his impact on the sector’s growth and development. His tenure as the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture is anticipated to bring about significant advancements, enhancing Ghana’s appeal as a premier tourist destination and celebrating its rich cultural heritage.
