Mrs. Kosi Yankey-Ayeh, the CEO of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), took center stage as the keynote speaker on the second day of the Black History Festival, delivering an insightful address on “The Role of MSMEs and How They Overcame the Impact of COVID-19”. The event provided a platform for discussing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Ghana during the global health crisis.
In her speech, Mrs. Yankey-Ayeh shared her perspective on the resilience of Ghanaian MSMEs. “It is such an amazing time to discuss the challenges and opportunities of doing business in Ghana,” she remarked, reflecting on the engagement and dialogue that took place. Her presentation delved into how these businesses navigated the economic turbulence brought about by the pandemic, emphasizing innovation, adaptation, and the crucial support from governmental and non-governmental organizations.
The Black History Festival was not only a celebration of cultural heritage but also an opportunity to highlight economic contributions and resilience. Mrs. Yankey-Ayeh expressed her delight in sharing the stage with notable figures, including Hon Dr. Yaw Osafo-Maafo, Presidential Advisor to the President of Ghana, and other distinguished guests. This assembly of leaders and thinkers underscored the importance of collaboration between policy makers, business leaders, and the community in fostering economic recovery and growth.
Mrs. Yankey-Ayeh’s keynote was particularly poignant as it came from her position at the helm of GEA, an agency instrumental in supporting the MSME sector through various initiatives aimed at business development, financial access, and digital transformation. Her insights provided attendees with a roadmap of sorts, illustrating how MSMEs could leverage such support to not only survive but thrive post-COVID.
The event fostered a spirit of resilience, showcasing how Ghanaian MSMEs, with the right support and strategies, have managed to overcome the adverse impacts of the global health crisis. Mrs. Yankey-Ayeh’s participation and her message at the Black History Festival serve as a testament to the ongoing commitment of Ghana’s leadership to empower small businesses, which are seen as the backbone of the national economy.
