Ghanaian businesses are being urged to adopt management systems certification to enhance their global competitiveness and meet international market requirements.
Speaking at the third Annual General Meeting, Mrs. Dzienyo Akafia, Head of Systems Certification at the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), stated that consumers across the world increasingly prefer companies with certified management systems, as these ensure the consistent delivery of safe and high-quality products and services.
“Systems certification enables businesses to properly document their processes, analyze data, identify potential problems early, and implement corrective actions before issues escalate,” she explained.
Mrs. Akafia noted that many Ghanaian businesses traditionally prefer informal methods and resist documentation, but stressed the importance of keeping structured records.
“Without documentation, you can’t effectively conduct internal audits or track your progress. Records provide the insight needed to assess whether you’re improving or regressing over time.”
She stressed the importance of periodic internal audits as a core part of certification standards. These audits help companies verify that they are meeting their goals and allow them to course-correct based on documented performance data.
On the benefits, Mrs. Akafia said certification builds client confidence and opens doors to international markets. “Some large certified companies in Ghana are able to export their products to the UK, the US, and other parts of the sub-region, while similar uncertified companies remain confined to the local market.”
Professor Alex Dodoo, Director-General of the GSA, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to supporting businesses to thrive.
He said standardization not only improves industrial efficiency but also enhances recognition and growth opportunities. He reiterated, however, that documentation remains a key challenge for many local firms.
The GSA has been running the Management Systems Certification Scheme, accredited by DAkkS, a German accreditation body for several years.
The scheme covers areas such as quality management, food safety, and environmental management.
