The umbrella-body for event organisers in Ghana, known as the Events and Meetings Professionals Association of Ghana (EMPAG), has formally been launched with a mission to promote growth and preservation of the events industry through policy advocacy and standardisation of industry practices.
EMPAG is made up of private companies operating in the events management sector of Ghana’s hospitality industry. The association has seen some challenges as a result of COVID-19, but is optimistic of a better year in 2021.
Launching the Association at a soiree, President of EMPAG and CEO of CharterHouse, Theresa Ayoade, indicated that members of the association have been running virtual events for the most part of this year, based on current conditions resulting from the coronavirus pandemic.
“We want to draw the attention to our industry – ahead of the upcoming Christmas period which we envisage will be packed with events. This is an opportunity to send out a word of caution to all event organisers and patrons of events to continue adhering strictly to the COVID-19 protocols to curb any spread during events and the Christmas festivities,” said Ms. Ayoade.
According to her, event organisers are among the country’s biggest employers – providing full and part-time as well as contract jobs to people with diverse skills and know-how.
“Our industry is a key contributor to the economy of Ghana, as our undertakings provide revenue-generating opportunities for hotels, convention centres, transport operators, food and beverage services, the creative economy and a host of other businesses within the value chain of our operations,” she added.
EMPAG members represent the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions), entertainment, experiential marketing and corporate events, as well as events logistics, audiovisual production and event support services. Members are specialised in organising and providing logistics and support services for large events, corporate events and social/private events.
National Executives of EMPAG are Theresa Ayoade of CharterHouse as President; Kojo Poku of Big Ideaz as Vice President; Fred Darko of E-Volution International as General Secretary; Gina Nettey of Genet Services as the Deputy General Secretary; and Edith Dankwa of Business & Financial Times as the First Financial Secretary.
The rest are Tamara Jonah-Goka of Lionheart Events as the second Financial Secretary; Rudi Kwaakye of Rave Media as the First Organising Secretary; Gizo of BTL Africa as the second Organising Secretary; Clarence Amoatey of Touchpoint Magna Carta as the Communication Officer; and Edwin Amankwah of Global Media Alliance as the second Communication Officer.
