Ghanaian-made products dominated the Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG) Women in SME Fair in Accra, showcasing the growing manufacturing capacity of women entrepreneurs and their readiness to compete in regional and global markets.
The fair, organised by the Women of Africa Network in partnership with Consolidated Bank Ghana, forms part of efforts to promote women entrepreneurship and position women-led businesses to take advantage of opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Exhibitors displayed a wide range of locally manufactured products, including mineral water, detergents, beads, snacks and beauty products produced to international standards.
Among the participating businesses were Haus of Lush, Dash Products and Services, and Eden Blossom Jay and Jay Limited, which showcased products targeting both domestic and export markets.
Ms Yaliwe Mlambo, Chairperson of the United African Blockchain Association, said the exhibition reflected the increasing ability of African women entrepreneurs to manufacture high-quality finished products capable of competing internationally.
“It is great to see not only raw products, but also finished products, manufactured products and exportable products that could even be exported globally,” she said.
She encouraged Africans to patronise locally manufactured goods to strengthen women-owned businesses and promote intra-African trade.
“We need to be more connected as a continent. If I am more comfortable using a product that’s coming from overseas, what happens to the women that are building and investing in businesses?” she asked.
Mrs Naomi Wolali Kwetey, Managing Director of Consolidated Bank Ghana, described women entrepreneurs as key drivers of economic growth, innovation and national development, stressing the need for greater support for their businesses.
She said the bank remained committed to providing financial solutions, business advisory services and financial literacy programmes tailored to the needs of women-owned enterprises.
“We strive to be a trusted partner, providing the financial support, tools and opportunities that empower women-owned businesses to start, grow and succeed,” she said.
Mrs Vida Awumey, Executive Director of the Women of Africa Network, said the fair sought to connect women entrepreneurs with buyers, investors and financial institutions while exposing them to opportunities for business expansion.
She noted that despite the increasing number of women-owned businesses, many continued to face challenges, including limited access to affordable credit, inadequate financial literacy and restricted access to markets.
Women-led small and medium-sized enterprises remain a critical pillar of Ghana’s economy.
According to recent data from the Ghana Statistical Service, Ghana has more than 2.6 million businesses, with women playing a dominant role in micro and small enterprises, particularly in the trade and services sectors.
The data further indicate that nearly 80 percent of people operating open-space businesses are women, highlighting their significant contribution to grassroots economic activity.
