Take advantage of SME GO programme – Baafi
By Abdulai SAAKA
THE Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Michael Okyere Baafi, has called on businesses to take full advantage of the government’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Growth and Opportunity (SME GO) programme to expand their operations.
Backed by a funding package of GHS 8.2 billion, the SME GO programme is designed to provide targeted financing and technical assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), helping them scale their businesses and remain competitive in the market.
Speaking at the launch of the 13th Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) Ghana Industry and Quality Awards in Accra, Mr. Baafi emphasized the significant role SME GO plays in supporting businesses that are looking to transition from small to larger enterprises.
“SME GO has come as a savior for businesses in this country, especially those seeking to scale up,” he said. He highlighted the programme’s financial and technical support, which is being implemented through the Ghana Enterprise Agency, the Ghana EXIM Bank, and the Development Bank Ghana, as key resources that will help businesses overcome challenges and stimulate growth.
Promoting Quality in Industrial Production
Mr. Okyere Baafi reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting quality standards in industrial production. “Quality cannot be underestimated in modern-day business,” he said, urging businesses to focus on producing goods and services that are competitive in both local and international markets.
The Deputy Minister praised AGI for consistently organizing the Industry and Quality Awards, describing the association as a credible institution that has significantly contributed to the growth and development of businesses in Ghana. He reaffirmed the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s ongoing support for AGI’s initiatives to promote industrial growth.
Emphasizing Innovation Amid Global Challenges
AGI’s CEO, Seth Twum-Akwaboah, also underscored the importance of innovation in maintaining productivity, particularly in a challenging global business climate. “We find ourselves in a very challenging global environment, characterized by uncertainties stemming from geopolitical tensions to technological disruptions,” Mr. Twum-Akwaboah said.
He stressed that businesses must continue to adapt and innovate to thrive in this environment. “Innovation is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity,” he noted, adding that through innovation, businesses can turn challenges into opportunities and convert disruptions into growth drivers.
The AGI CEO revealed that this year’s awards will focus on key industrial elements such as supply chain efficiency, quality management, corporate social responsibility, and sustainability. He emphasized that deepening Ghana’s industrialization requires placing a special emphasis on value chains, which are critical to driving long-term industrial growth.
Celebrating Excellence and Inspiring Growth
The AGI Industry and Quality Awards, now in their 13th year, have become a prestigious national event. Winners of the Quality Awards often go on to compete at the West African level, showcasing Ghana’s industrial achievements on a regional stage.
Mr. Twum-Akwaboah encouraged businesses to actively participate in the awards, noting that they not only recognize excellence but also inspire others to strive for higher standards in their operations.
The 13th edition of the AGI Ghana Industry and Quality Awards promises to be a celebration of resilience, innovation, and excellence across various industries.
Businesses from multiple sectors are expected to compete for the coveted awards, which serve as a platform for recognizing industrial achievements and encouraging continuous improvement. The event concluded with a call for more businesses to participate in the awards, which will take place later this year, and for sponsors to continue their support in making the event a success.
