Public Policy think tank IMANI Africa is embracing the fallout of the just-ended Kwahu Business Forum, endorsing the recommendations as a powerful means of transforming the country’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and driving inclusive growth.
The forum, held on April 19, 2025, at Kwahu in the Eastern Region, was an initiative of the government spearheaded by the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah. It brought together relevant stakeholders in the country’s economic development to discuss pertinent issues focused on shaping Ghana’s economic future through investment and inclusive growth, with a strong emphasis on empowering MSMEs.
Outcomes at the end of the forum included a resolve to expand access to affordable capital, the need to build and strengthen digital infrastructure, tailored support for key growth sectors such as agro-processing, ICT, green energy, tourism, and the inclusion of women and youth in economic development policies.
IMANI, in its critical analysis of the highlights of the event noted that if the initiatives outlined are fully implemented, Ghana’s MSME sector could experience significant and sustained growth. The think tank further emphasized that strengthening digital infrastructure would be a game-changer, especially for rural businesses, as it would widen access to financial services and digital marketplaces, which are two critical drivers of business resilience and expansion in today’s economy.
IMANI also endorsed the targeted support for key growth sectors as an opportunity to unlock new opportunities for MSMEs to scale, diversify, and compete both locally and internationally. They further praised the forum’s focus on creating a stable investment climate, explaining that reducing business risks and encouraging long-term planning are essential ingredients for building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“If the initiatives and recommendations are fully implemented, Ghana’s MSME sector could experience significant growth. Strengthened digital infrastructure would expand their access to financial services and digital marketplaces, especially for businesses in rural areas. Support for key growth sectors would open up new opportunities for expansion, while a stable investment climate would reduce business risks and foster long-term planning,” IMANI remarked.
Crucially, IMANI applauded the forum’s attention to inclusivity, particularly the deliberate focus on integrating women and youth entrepreneurs into the MSME landscape. According to the think tank, this approach would not only drive innovation and job creation but also ensure that Ghana’s economic development is broad-based and sustainable.
“The inclusion of women and youth entrepreneurs will diversify the MSME landscape, driving innovation, job creation, and inclusive economic development across the country,” IMANI stated.
This endorsement by IMANI Africa signals strong policy support for the forum’s vision and is expected to energize efforts by government, private sector players, and development partners to work towards full and effective implementation.
However, whether this forum does not become another talk shop, only time will be the best judge.
