Stories and facts
As the current Member of Parliament representing the Odododiodio constituency, he has wielded his influence in various capacities, including serving as the Minister of Youth and Sports and as the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry in the government of former President John Dramani Mahama.
Vanderpuye's academic journey laid the foundation for his distinguished career. He is an alumnus of the Bechem Presbyterian Boys' Secondary School and Mfantsipim School in Cape Coast. His academic achievements include a master's degree in governance and leadership from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, Philosophy, and Classics from the University of Ghana.
Vanderpuye's career trajectory is a testament to his versatility and dedication. His journey in sports journalism began in 1990 when he joined the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, where he eventually ascended to the role of Deputy Head of Sports. Between 2005 and 2008, he continued to make his mark as the Head of Sports at Network Broadcasting Limited.
However, it was in the political arena that Vanderpuye would carve out a prominent role. He served as a special aide and director of operations at the presidency under the administration of former President of Ghana, John Evans Atta Mills. His political acumen and contributions were further recognized when he assumed the position of Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry during John Mahama's presidency.
Vanderpuye's transition into the realm of parliamentary politics was a significant turning point in his career. He successfully contested the 2012 elections and was elected as the Member of Parliament for the Odododiodio constituency. His journey to Parliament was marked by a notable electoral victory where he faced off against Victor Okaikoi of the New Patriotic Party. Vanderpuye's confidence in the campaign was palpable, as he famously declared that he would concede the seat if he received less than 65% of the vote. In the end, he secured a resounding victory with 63% of the vote.
He continued to represent his constituency and was re-elected in December 2016, solidifying his position as the Member of Parliament for Odododiodio. In this election, he secured 57.04% of the votes, triumphing over his closest contender from the New Patriotic Party.
Within Parliament, Vanderpuye has been an active and influential member. He serves as the ranking member on the Local Government and Rural Development Committee and is a member of both the Privileges coCommitteend the Appointments Committee.
Vanderpuye's involvement in politics also extended to ministerial roles. In March 2013, he was appointed as the Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry under the government of John Mahama. Subsequently, he assumed the role of Deputy Minister for Local Government and Rural Development. However, his most significant ministerial appointment came in 2015 when President Mahama named him as the Minister of Youth and Sports, replacing Dr. Mustapha Ahmed.
Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye's journey from sports journalism to political leadership is a testament to his adaptability, commitment, and the profound impact he has made in both fields. His continued representation of the Odododiodio constituency and contributions to Ghana's political landscape highlight the vital role he plays in shaping the nation's future.
