
Ambassador Mike Oquaye Jnr.
The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) has kicked off the Ghanaian Entrepreneur for Export roadshow with members of the East Legon Executive Business and fitness Club on Monday.
The move forms part of the GFZA’s drive to consolidate and grow local interest and participation in the Free Zones Scheme as well as to encourage businesses to take advantage of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He believes the business of Ghana must be driven and led by Ghanaians.
Ambassador Oquaye discussed the importance of Ghanaian investors and entrepreneurs, such as the East Legon Executive Club members, taking advantage of the scheme, in line with the Authority’s vision to help Ghanaian businesses “Achieve More exports, Beyond the Horizon – into Africa and the Rest of the World.”
According to available numbers, 31 percent of firms are totally held by Ghanaians, 33 percent are partially owned by Ghanaian and foreign interests, and 36 percent are wholly foreign owned, contrary to popular belief that the Free Zones Scheme is controlled by foreign companies.
“More Ghanaians must get on board to create more wealth and jobs locally, in line with the vision of Ghana Beyond Aid – as espoused by President Akufo-Addo,” he added.
Members of the club took turns to ask questions touching on, how to secure a License, challenges with Exports into West Africa, the need for government support businesses to penetrate other countries among others.
The “Ghanaian Entrepreneurs for Export” drive is a roadshow that will see the leadership of the GFZA personalising its interaction with potential investors, associations and business groupings.