Meet Cecilia Abena Dapaah, first female MP for the Bantama constituency of the Ashanti Region

Stories and facts

Cecilia Abena Dapaah, a distinguished figure in Ghanaian politics, has had a notable career as both a politician and a public servant. Born on November 27, 1954, in Mpasatia, Ashanti Region, Dapaah's journey has seen her serve as a Member of Parliament for the Bantama constituency and hold ministerial roles in crucial sectors such as water resources, aviation, and sanitation.

With a strong academic background from the University of Ghana and further education from institutions like the Harvard Kennedy School and the University of Oslo, Dapaah's commitment to continuous learning has been evident. Prior to her political career, she was actively involved in development work and served as the chairperson of the Board of Ghana Cocoa Processing Company. Her time in parliament, particularly from 2005 to 2013, showcased her dedication to legislative duties and her constituents' interests.

Representing the New Patriotic Party, she secured significant victories in the 2004 and 2008 Ghanaian general elections. Appointed as the Minister for Aviation in 2017, Dapaah aimed to revitalize Ghana's aviation industry, emphasizing the establishment of a national carrier.

However, her tenure as the Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources was marked by controversy and allegations of corruption, leading to her resignation in July 2023. Despite these challenges, Dapaah's personal life reflects her commitment to family and community, and her legacy in Ghanaian politics remains significant, characterized by her contributions to national development and her dedication to public service.

Explore the life of Cecilia Abena Dapaah below.

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