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At the 2025 Kwahu Business Forum held on Saturday, April 19, Ms. Margaret Ansei, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), made a compelling case for the urgent adoption of digital tools by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to drive efficiency and reduce operational waste.
Addressing stakeholders from across the country’s private and public sectors, Ms. Ansei emphasized that Ghana’s ambitious 24-hour economy policy can only succeed if innovation and efficiency become the norm, particularly within MSMEs, which make up over 90% of all businesses and employ nearly 80% of the workforce.
“The implementation of a 24-hour economy with inefficiencies would be a very expensive adventure,” Ms. Ansei cautioned, citing a recent GEA pilot study that revealed sales losses of up to 17.9% and productivity losses of 28% among businesses due to inefficiencies.
She highlighted the U-SPARK Project, a digital initiative by GEA, as a game-changer for local businesses. The tool has already helped SMEs improve their production lines and reduce quality losses, leading to a 36% improvement in overall operational efficiency.
“Through our partnership with UNIDO, we’re empowering MSMEs to collect real-time data and monitor their key performance indicators. This isn’t just about reducing waste – it’s about redefining how our businesses operate and grow,” Ms. Ansei noted.
She also outlined broader digital and inclusive initiatives under the RESET AGENDA, such as special funding for women, youth, and persons with disabilities, and support to formalize rural businesses through the Rural Enterprises Program.
Reaffirming GEA’s alignment with President John Dramani Mahama’s 24-hour economy vision, Ms. Ansei declared: “GEA stands as an irreplaceable pillar in the sustainable development of MSMEs in Ghana. We shall continue to roll out innovative interventions to build a thriving and prosperous business ecosystem.”
The forum gathered key industry players, financial institutions, policymakers, and development partners to explore solutions for inclusive economic growth and industrial transformation.
