The second edition of the highly anticipated Kwahu Business Forum is set to take place from April 19 to 20, 2025, at the Mpraeso Social Centre in the Kwahu South District of the Eastern Region.
Under the theme “The Future of Business: The Role of the Financial Sector,” the event promises to provide an important platform for dialogue between financial institutions and key private sector players.
In his speech at the media launch of the Forum, Chief of Staff, Mr. Julius Debrah, emphasized the significant role the event plays in President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to creating an environment conducive to business growth. Mr. Debrah, a Kwahu native and successful businessman, highlighted that the Forum aligns with the President’s vision of accelerating the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), particularly in sectors like agri-processing and manufacturing, with an emphasis on tangible export-driven industries.
“The Forum is about more than just talking; it’s about action and delivering on promises,” Mr. Debrah said. Reflecting on President Mahama’s pre-election discussions with the business community, he noted that this year’s edition builds on last year’s momentum and focuses on actionable strategies for growing businesses and creating jobs.
Notably, the Forum will see the active participation of major Ghanaian banks, particularly state-owned financial institutions, which have pledged their support to local businesses. In a meeting held in early April, executives from key banks such as the Agricultural Development Bank and the National Investment Bank expressed their willingness to support at least five Ghanaian businesses each, helping them to scale and succeed.
The two-day event will feature a series of sessions and exhibitions. On Day 1, the Forum will hold conference-style discussions focusing on agri-processing and manufacturing, showcasing funding opportunities available to local entrepreneurs. Representatives from the African Development Bank are also expected to participate, offering insights into how they can assist private sector growth.
Mr. Debrah emphasized that the initiative would not only benefit businesses in Kwahu but also have national implications. As the event continues to grow, the Forum aims to attract business leaders from across the country, fostering stronger connections and collaboration between the private sector and financial institutions. The long-term goal is to create a thriving ecosystem of businesses that can contribute to Ghana’s export-driven growth agenda.
“The Kwahu Business Forum is more than just an event—it’s a strategic initiative that will empower businesses, create opportunities, and build long-term partnerships,” he concluded, adding that the Forum could evolve into an annual national event that supports business growth and enhances Ghana’s position in the West African market.
