Paa Kwesi Schandorf, a distinguished figure in Ghanaian media and a former journalist at Joy News, has embarked on a new chapter in his career with a dual appointment in the public sector. He now serves as the Communications Assistant at the recently established Gold Board and concurrently holds the position of Media Relations Officer at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. This significant development, announced by Schandorf himself on his Facebook page on May 26, 2025, marks a transition from the media landscape to the realm of government communications and public affairs.
Schandorf’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture for Ghana’s gold sector. The establishment of the Gold Board signifies a concerted effort by the government to streamline and strengthen the governance of this vital industry. As Communications Assistant, Schandorf will play a pivotal role in shaping the public’s perception of the Gold Board and its initiatives. He will be responsible for disseminating information, managing public relations, and fostering transparent communication between the Board and its stakeholders. Given his background in journalism, Schandorf brings a wealth of experience in information dissemination and public engagement, skills that will be invaluable in navigating the complex landscape of the gold sector.
Simultaneously, his role as Media Relations Officer at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources places him at the forefront of communication efforts concerning a broader range of natural resources. This ministry plays a critical role in managing Ghana’s land, forests, minerals, and wildlife, and effective communication is essential for ensuring public understanding and support for its policies and programs. Schandorf’s expertise in media relations will be instrumental in conveying the Ministry’s messages to the public, responding to media inquiries, and managing any potential public relations challenges. This dual role underscores the government’s recognition of the importance of strategic communication in managing both specific sectors like gold and the broader domain of natural resources.
Schandorf’s enthusiasm for his new roles is evident in his public statements. He has expressed his commitment to contributing to President John Mahama’s vision for transforming the gold sector and driving national development. This alignment with the government’s overarching goals suggests that Schandorf sees his appointments not merely as career advancements, but as opportunities to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s progress. His commitment to supporting the National Democratic Congress (NDC) vision further emphasizes his belief in the party’s agenda for national development and his desire to play a role in its realization.
The appointment itself speaks volumes about Schandorf’s professional standing and the value placed on his skills. He has been nominated for the prestigious BBC Komla Dumor Award, a testament to his journalistic prowess and potential. This recognition, combined with his extensive experience in media, makes him a valuable asset to the Mahama administration. His selection also reflects a broader trend within the government of recruiting respected media professionals for key communication and public affairs roles. This trend suggests a recognition of the importance of effective communication in governance and the value of bringing in individuals with proven communication skills.
Schandorf’s public acknowledgement of Sammy Gyamfi, the NDC’s National Communications Officer, and the Acting CEO of the Gold Board highlights the collaborative nature of his appointments. His expression of gratitude towards these individuals suggests that they played a significant role in his selection, underscoring the importance of networks and mentorship within professional spheres. The entrustment of this dual mandate demonstrates the confidence placed in Schandorf’s abilities and his capacity to handle the responsibilities associated with both positions. This confidence also speaks to the potential for growth and development within these roles, offering Schandorf a platform to further hone his skills and contribute to the public good.
