A major highlight of the National Economic Zones Policy Roundtable held in Accra was the launch of the Skills and Jobs Initiative by Minister of Trade Elizabeth Ofosu-Agyare and Dr. Mary Awusi, Chief Executive Officer of the Free Zones Authority (GFZA).
The initiative is designed to equip young people with practical skills in advanced manufacturing, agribusiness, and value addition, enhancing employability and productivity within Special Economic Zones (SEZs). It also forms part of efforts to align industrial growth with job creation and private sector expansion.
Held under the theme “Advancing Manufacturing Competitiveness through SEZs,” the high-level roundtable brought together senior government officials, development partners, and private sector executives to explore how SEZs can serve as catalysts for sustainable industrialization.
In her keynote address, the Minister of Trade reaffirmed government’s commitment to implementing the SEZ policy framework, stressing the importance of the zones in attracting investment, diversifying exports, and expanding local manufacturing capacity.
Dr. Mary Awusi emphasized the Free Zones Authority’s dedication to creating an enabling environment for industry players and leveraging SEZs to foster inclusive growth.
Mr. Hamidu Sibiri Musah, Deputy CEO of the GFZA, detailed new policy measures being introduced to modernize the investment landscape. These include the establishment of an AfCFTA Desk, designed to help domestic businesses tap into opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area and integrate more deeply into continental value chains.
Also present was Dr. Patience Agbleze Acorlor, Director of Corporate Affairs, PR & Aftercare at the GFZA, who highlighted the Authority’s commitment to investor facilitation and the continuous improvement of industrial capacity to support the country’s long-term development goals.
The roundtable marked a significant step in advancing industrial development, strengthening cross-sector collaboration, and reinforcing SEZs as key drivers of economic transformation.
