The Kwahu Business Forum is expanding its reach and influence in response to increasing demands from Ghana’s financial sector, aiming to foster stronger ties between private enterprises and financial institutions. According to reports gathered by Accra Street Journal, the expansion is designed to deepen support for SMEs, drive investment in priority sectors like agro-processing and manufacturing, and align national development goals with sustainable business practices.
Following a surge in interest from stakeholders in the financial services sector and growing demand for regional inclusion, the Government of Ghana is expanding the Kwahu Business Forum to accommodate more participants and broaden its national impact.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah confirmed that his office had received numerous requests from insurance firms, finance houses, and pension fund managers who were excluded from the Forum and expressed concern over their omission.
He said the overwhelming patronage and feedback had influenced government’s decision to increase both the reach and size of the event.
“Insurers and other key players in Ghana’s business community expressed concern over being left out. We have taken their concerns seriously and are taking steps to ensure broader participation in future forums,” Mr. Debrah stated in an interview with journalists.
He disclosed that plans are already in motion to rotate aspects of the Forum across the country to promote inclusive national development. While the flagship sessions will continue to take place in Kwahu, regional editions will be introduced to ensure participation from all parts of Ghana.
To manage the expected increase in attendance, the Eastern Regional Minister will assist in securing larger venues, with government targeting facilities capable of hosting five times more participants next year. In a move to boost domestic tourism, Mr. Debrah said incentive tour packages will be offered to participating businesses and banking executives attending the regional events.
He further revealed that additional hotels are expected to be constructed in the Eastern Region to cater to exhibitors and visitors, ensuring the Forum remains a top-tier national platform for business networking and policy dialogue.
The Kwahu Business Forum, inaugurated by President John Dramani Mahama in 2024, forms part of his administration’s broader SME and export growth agenda. This year’s theme, “The Future of Business: The Role of the Financial Sector,” brought together more than 20 institutions including banks, insurance companies, pension funds, fintech firms, and telecom operators to discuss solutions in targeted financing, digital inclusion, and blended finance models.
Speaking at the opening session, President Mahama pledged to reduce borrowing costs through credit system reforms and the establishment of a national venture capital fund focused on youth and women-led enterprises. He also underscored the need for “digital, green, and inclusive” business strategies, supported by dependable electricity and a 24-hour logistics network.
Franklin Asare Donkoh, Executive Director of the Forum, disclosed that each participating bank has committed to supporting at least five promising SMEs annually, with a target of creating over 600 new businesses by 2028. These entrepreneurs, he said, will be brought back in subsequent editions to share their progress and demonstrate the impact of the initiative.
With new participants on board, infrastructure expansion, and financial sector commitments in place, the Kwahu Business Forum is positioning itself as a driving force for Ghana’s economic transformation through public-private collaboration.
Last Updated on April 21, 2025 by samboad
