The 5th edition of the “This is Ghana” Exhibition, held over the weekend by Channel One TV and Citi FM, was a remarkable success, drawing over 120 exhibitors and thousands of patrons. The event celebrated the diversity of Ghanaian-made products and services, with offerings ranging from Agribusiness, Food and Confectionery, Clothing, Toiletries and Fragrances, Hair products, and more. The fair highlighted several critical outcomes that have implications for policy makers who can play a vital role in scaling up these efforts to further boost Ghana’s economy.
- Increased visibility and demand for local products
The overwhelming patronage at the fair highlighted a strong and growing demand for Ghanaian-made products. Exhibitors reported high levels of interest and sales, indicating that consumers are increasingly valuing locally produced goods. For policy makers, this outcome underscores the need to enhance support for local industries through policies that incentivize the production and consumption of made-in-Ghana products. This could include tax incentives, subsidies for local manufacturers, or campaigns to further boost consumer awareness.
- The need for improved digital infrastructure
The importance of digital marketing was a key takeaway, as businesses recognized the potential of online platforms to expand their reach. However, the lack of widespread access to reliable internet and digital tools remains a barrier for many small businesses, particularly in rural areas. Policy makers should prioritize the development of digital infrastructure across the country to ensure that all businesses, regardless of location, can fully participate in the digital economy. Investment in training programs to enhance digital literacy among entrepreneurs is also crucial.
- Financial Literacy as a Cornerstone for Sustainable Growth
The financial management seminars at the fair emphasized the critical role of financial literacy in ensuring the sustainability of small businesses. Many participants expressed the need for ongoing support in this area. Policy makers can scale up this outcome by integrating financial education into the national curriculum and by supporting initiatives that provide entrepreneurs with access to financial tools, resources, and advisory services. Additionally, creating more accessible funding opportunities for small businesses can help them grow and thrive.
- Unlocking opportunities in strategic industries
The fair highlighted the untapped potential for small businesses to enter strategic industries such as Oil and Gas. However, the lack of access to information, training, and industry networks remains a challenge. Policy makers can address this by facilitating partnerships between small businesses and larger industry players, creating training programs tailored to the needs of these sectors, and ensuring that small businesses have the certifications and support needed to compete in these markets.
- Enhancing packaging for export success
One of the critical outcomes of the fair was the recognition of the importance of proper packaging in making products competitive in international markets. Many exhibitors acknowledged that improving packaging could significantly boost their export potential. Policy makers can play a pivotal role by supporting initiatives that provide technical assistance and resources for small businesses to improve their packaging standards. This could include workshops on international packaging standards and collaborations with export promotion agencies as is being done by GEPA and GEXIM.
A call to action for policy makers
The “This is Ghana” Fair has demonstrated the immense potential of Ghanaian businesses to contribute to the country’s economic growth. However, to fully realize this potential, policy makers must take decisive action to scale up the support provided to local industries. This includes investing in digital infrastructure, enhancing financial literacy programs, unlocking opportunities in strategic sectors, and supporting initiatives that improve packaging for export.
By implementing these policies, the government can ensure that the success of events like the “This is Ghana” Exhibition translates into long-term economic growth, job creation, and a stronger position for Ghana on the global stage. The fair is not just a showcase of what is possible—it is a blueprint for what can be achieved with the right support from policy makers.
The event, which was organized by Channel One TV and Citi FM, takes place in the last week of August every year.
The “This Is Ghana” exhibition 2024 was powered by Channel One TV and 97.3 Citi FM. and proudly sponsored by MTN, Koa Natural, Ghana National Gas Company, Ghana Pay Mobile Money, Peeva Beverages, Ghana Exim Bank, Petroleum Commission Ghana, Global Shea Alliance, Built and Aramex Ghana Limited.
