Dr. Evans Aggrey-Darkoh, Head of the Civil Service, has commended the leadership of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, praising its Chief Director Dr. Afisah Zakariah for what he described as dedication, intellectual depth and a strong commitment to excellence.
He made the remarks during her annual performance evaluation, a formal process under which Chief Directors sign performance agreements with the Head of Civil Service, endorsed by their sector ministers, and undergo both mid-year and end-of-year assessments. The review forms part of broader public sector accountability measures aimed at improving institutional performance.
Dr. Aggrey-Darkoh described the ministry as focused and well coordinated, noting that its robust administrative systems and programme outcomes reflect meticulous and disciplined leadership. He singled out the management of the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty programme, calling it a critical safety net for vulnerable households whose credibility depends on prudent resource management and effective oversight.
He also highlighted the ministry’s work in child protection, including interventions addressing child marriage and human trafficking, as well as progress on the National Parenting Strategy designed to strengthen families and promote responsible parenting nationwide.
According to him, the establishment of a Child Care Nursery Centre within the ministry stands out as an innovative initiative supporting working parents while promoting work–life balance across the public service.
While commending these achievements, Dr. Aggrey-Darkoh stressed the need for sustained financial discipline, transparency and digitalisation reforms to improve efficiency across government institutions.
He concluded by describing Dr. Zakariah as a hardworking and detail-oriented administrator whose leadership continues to advance social protection, child welfare and gender equality in Ghana.