President John Mahama has appointed Prof. Michael Kpessa-Whyte as the acting Director-General of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA). 

His appointment took effect on Thursday, January 23, 2025.

As DG of SIGA, Prof. Kpessa-White will be in charge of the centralised oversight body established in the State Interests and Governance Authority, 2019 (Act 990) to oversee and administer the State’s interests in State-owned Enterprises (SOEs), Joint Venture Companies (JVCs) and Other State Entities (OSEs).

Among its objectives, SIGA is expected to carry out its mandate to promote within the framework of government policy the efficient, or where applicable, profitable operations of specified entities.

SIGA currently oversees a portfolio of 175 specified entities, comprised of 53 SOEs, 47 JVCs and 75 OSEs across the energy, mining, financial, agriculture, regulatory, health, education, as well as transportation and logistics sectors.

These entities together control significant assets of the country, playing critical roles in various sectors of the economy. 

Background

Prof. Kpessa-White is a distinguished academic and policy expert known for his extensive experience in governance, public policy analysis, and social democracy.

His career encompasses substantial teaching and research roles, establishing him as a prolific scholar, conference speaker, and consultant who has made meaningful contributions to both national and international policymaking.

Prof. Kpessa-Whyte is a specialist in governance, public policy analysis, public sector management, constitutional politics and social democracy.

His strong professional background is reflected in his accomplishments as an academic and policy expert, which include being a widely published scholar, an active participant in conferences and a sought-after consultant.

His work has significantly influenced policymaking on the national and international stages.

Education

Prof. Kpessa-Whyte earned his PhD in Political Science with a focus on Comparative Public Policy from McMaster University, where he studied from 2005 to 2009. 
Before that, he obtained a Master’s degree in Political Science, specialising in International Relations, from Brock University between 2003 and 2005.

He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Ghana from 1998 to 2001.

Additionally, he was a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy at the University of Saskatchewan from 2009 to 2010.

Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Shai-Osudoku has sent a congratulatory message to Prof. Kpessa-Whyte on his appointment as the acting Director of SIGA.

“This appointment is a testament to your exceptional leadership skills, academic excellence, and unwavering commitment to public service.

“As a renowned political scientist and researcher, you bring a wealth of experience and expertise to this critical role,” the party said in a statement signed by the NDC’s Secretary for Shai-Osudoku Constituency, Jones N. Ayertey.

“We are confident that under your leadership, SIGA will continue to promote good governance, transparency and accountability in the management of state assets,” the statement issued at the weekend stated.

It said Prof. Kpessa-Whyte's appointment was a significant milestone in SIGA's journey towards ensuring that state-owned enterprises operated efficiently, effectively, and in the best interest of the Ghanaian people.

“We are optimistic that his vision for SIGA will drive growth, development and prosperity for all Ghanaians,” it added.