President John Dramani Mahama has outlined an ambitious roadmap to revitalise Ghana’s private sector and strengthen its financial systems, pledging sweeping reforms to restore investor confidence, improve access to financing, and position the country for sustainable, inclusive growth.
Delivering the keynote address at the 2025 Kwahu Business Forum in Mpraeso, President Mahama called the financial sector “the bloodstream of any economy” and emphasized its central role in business expansion, job creation, and national transformation.
“This year’s theme, The Future of Business; The Role of the Financial Sector, could not be more relevant,” he said. “We must build an economy that is resilient, inclusive, and productive and this cannot be achieved without a financial sector that works not just for a few, but for every Ghanaian business.”
President Mahama further outlined a series of bold initiatives to unlock business potential and reduce the cost of doing business in Ghana. He mentioned these measures to be implemented to create a good business environment;
Strategic Priorities to Power Economic Transformation
Expanded Access to Affordable Capital: Leveraging institutions like the Ghana Development Bank and the proposed Women’s Development Bank to empower entrepreneurs and SMEs.
National Venture Capital Fund: A new fund targeting youth- and women-led businesses to drive innovation and job creation.
Tax Incentives and Technical Support: Specifically tailored for small and medium enterprises to stimulate domestic enterprise.
Reformed Credit Systems: Aimed at lowering borrowing costs and directing credit toward productive sectors.
He also pledged to modernise infrastructures including roads, logistics, and digital connectivity, to build an environment where businesses of all sizes can thrive.
Financial Inclusion and Skills for the Future
President Mahama placed strong emphasis on financial inclusion, promising to partner with fintechs, banks, and mobile money providers to expand access to formal financial services, especially in rural areas.
Recognising the link between skills development and economic opportunity, he announced the introduction of a Jobs and Skills Compact, a collaboration between government, industry, and academia to align education and training with market demands.
“Our vision is of a Ghana where no young person needs to leave their hometown in search of opportunities,” he said. “We want our communities to become hubs of innovation, enterprise, and decent work.”
Laying the Groundwork for a 24-Hour Economy
Reaffirming his commitment to Ghana’s transition into a 24-hour economy, President Mahama said the government will invest in energy reliability, logistics, and public safety to support businesses operating around the clock. This, he noted, will enhance productivity, create jobs, and expand economic activity nationwide.
A Partnership-Based Approach to National Development
President Mahama underscored that economic transformation cannot be led by the government alone. He called for a strong partnership between the state and private sector, anchored in rule of law, respect for contracts, and a responsive public service.
“Let us work together to build a Ghana that is competitive, productive, and inclusive, a Ghana that creates opportunities for all,” he concluded.
The president officially declared the 2025 Kwahu Business Forum open, describing it as a crucial platform for shaping policies and fostering collaboration between business leaders, innovators, and policymakers.
