Addressing attendees at the 4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, James Gyakye Quayson, called on diplomatic missions and the private sector to champion Ghana’s economic transformation. Speaking on behalf of the Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, he highlighted the event’s importance in aligning with the government’s vision of a self-reliant, industrialized, and globally competitive nation.
The theme of this year’s Bazaar, “Championing Economic Diplomacy; Connecting Producers, Markets, and Opportunities,” directly supports President Mahama’s initiatives to empower micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs). Mr. Quayson highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to using its global network of diplomatic missions to promote Ghanaian non-traditional exports like processed cocoa, shea butter, and textiles.
”The Bazaar is relevant and appropriate, especially considering recent geopolitical dynamics amid rising protectionism and tariff impositions,” he stated, adding that these global shifts have made it critical for Ghana to reassess its strategic priorities and forge new economic partnerships.
Prioritizing Exports and MSME Support
The Deputy Minister announced a new performance metric for Heads of Mission, stating that their success will be measured by their ability to increase the use of Made-in-Ghana products in their host countries. This, he said, is a tangible step toward promoting national interests abroad.
He also outlined several key government policies designed to support MSMEs, particularly those led by women and youth:
Women’s Development Bank: This initiative, with a seed capital of GH¢57.3 million will provide low-interest loans to women entrepreneurs.
Accelerated Export Development Programme (AEDAC): A programme aimed at boosting non-traditional export earnings from $3.5 billion to at least $10 billion by 2030.
Rapid Industrialization for Jobs Initiative: A plan to establish strategic industries and revive defunct ones like the Komenda Sugar Factory.
National Apprenticeship Programme: Designed to provide free technical and vocational training to over 500,000 young Ghanaians.
Adwumawura Programme: Set to mentor and support at least 10,000 youth-led businesses annually.
Expanding Global Reach and Promoting Labor Export
Gyakye Quayson highlighted the Foreign Affairs Ministry’s success in helping Ghanaian businesses access international markets. He noted the establishment of “Made-in-Ghana Corners” in 12 diplomatic missions abroad and the plan to expand this initiative to all missions in the near future. He reported a growing international interest in Ghanaian exports, citing high demand for items like agricultural tools, beverages, and other processed goods.
He also emphasized that the government is not only focused on exporting goods but is also formalizing the Ghana Labour Export Programme. This initiative aims to create safer, structured, and legal pathways for Ghanaians seeking employment abroad while protecting their rights and welfare.
In his concluding remarks, the Deputy Minister expressed his determination to help Ghanaian products penetrate foreign markets, which will allow MSMEs to benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He called on exhibitors to focus on standardization and certification to ensure their products meet international quality standards.
The 4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar is open to the public for three days and will feature an Exhibitors Forum to discuss key issues such as company registration, access to finance, and marketing.
Story By: Eugenia Ewoenam Osei/Eric Boateng
