Ghanaian actor-turned-politician John Dumelo has been nominated as the Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture by President John Mahama.
The announcement was made on Wednesday through a post on X by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the president’s acting spokesperson.
Dumelo’s nomination is part of a broader cabinet reshuffle by President Mahama, which includes 12 other ministerial appointments. Among the newly nominated officials are two women, Gizella Tettey-Agbotui and Rita Naa Odoley Sowah.
Dumelo, who currently serves as the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, has been actively involved in agriculture through his Melo Farm, which focuses on crop and livestock farming. His increasing engagement in the sector is believed to have influenced his nomination for the ministerial role.
Before assuming office, Dumelo and the other nominees must undergo screening by Ghana’s parliamentary appointments committee.
Dumelo first gained prominence in 1991 with his role in Baby Thief and has since featured in numerous Ghanaian and Nigerian films, including Away Bus, The Game, One Night in Vegas, and The King is Mine. Over the years, he has received several awards for his acting career.
Beyond entertainment and politics, Dumelo has also been recognised for his philanthropic efforts. The University of Ghana recently honoured him for his contributions to student welfare.
His election to parliament in December 2024 was a significant milestone in his political career, following his initial loss to Lydia Alhassan in 2020.