MINISTER CALLS FOR BUSINESS REFORMS, VALUE ADDITION AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AT KBAA LAUNCH
The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has urged business leaders to unite under strong associations to influence reforms, remove bureaucratic bottlenecks and support Ghana’s drive toward industrial growth.
Speaking at the launch of the Kwahu Business Advocacy Association (KBAA) in Accra, the Minister said organized business groups have the power to shape policy and create a more responsive environment for enterprise development.
The Minister explained that many businesses face avoidable delays due to regulatory processes and limited access to credit, stressing that a united front gives the private sector greater negotiating strength.
“Leaders here understand how permits, inspections and access to credit can either help a business move forward or slow it down. This association must use its organized voice to push for reforms that reduce delays and costs for legitimate businesses,” she stated.
She added that government’s objective is to ensure that the public system supports expansion rather than frustrates it.
“When businesses are ready to expand, the public system must not be the obstacle,” she emphasized.
The Minister also highlighted the need for Ghana to shift from exporting raw materials to processing more at home to increase jobs and revenue.
“We cannot continue to export raw materials and import finished products at higher cost. The real gains come when we process more at home, meet standards and compete in wider markets,” she said.
She noted that agribusiness has become a deliberate focus of the Ministry, with efforts to strengthen production-to-processing linkages and improve supply chains.
“When that chain works well, families benefit through jobs, steady markets and better incomes,” she added.
On the implementation of the 24-Hour Economy policy, she said it would create conditions for production, storage and logistics to operate efficiently beyond traditional working hours, ultimately expanding employment opportunities.
Beyond policy and production, the Minister urged business leaders to make youth mentorship a visible part of their activities, arguing that sustainable enterprise growth depends on preparing the next generation.
“Our young people have energy and ideas, but many need exposure and mentorship. Even one internship slot each year by each company can change lives,” she said.
She encouraged members to share practical skills such as bookkeeping, customer care and business ethics to strengthen young entrepreneurs.
The Kwahu Business Advocacy Association is expected to serve as a platform for dialogue, business networking and leveraging opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area, with government assuring members of continued collaboration and support.
By Bawa Musah
