According to MTN Ghana’s CEO, Mr Steven Blewett, about 85% of Ghanaian businesses are classified as Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), highlighting their crucial role in the Ghana’s economy. To support these businesses, MTN Ghana lhas aunched has launched the SME Accelerate initiative, a year-long campaign aimed at enhancing SME engagement with their markets. The Mr. Blewett, announced the launch, stating, "We're excited to launch SME Accelerate in Accra's central business district, home to thousands of SMEs." He emphasized that SMEs were central to MTN's operations, but many operate informally, with 60% struggling to access credit.
Mr. Blewett also highlighted MTN Ghana's commitment to investing over $200 million in its network this year, bringing their total investment to $1 billion over the past five years. He noted that services like Mobile Money had made a significant impact and expressed pride in launching MTN Accelerate as a go-to brand for entrepreneurs in the digital economy. Additionally, he disclosed that MTN Ghana had introduced a new product, "Adwumapa," specifically designed for women-led SMEs in Ghana.
Angela Mensah-Poku, Chief Enterprise Business Officer at MTN Ghana, emphasized the company's commitment to supporting SMEs. "Our initiatives aim to reinforce our support for SMEs as they grow and adapt to our country's dynamic needs," she said.
The Consul of Bulgaria to Ghana, H.E. Nicolaas Van Staaldunien, expressed enthusiasm for the MTN SME Accelerate program and award scheme, launched in partnership with SMEGA (SME Grow Africa). Give full name). He advised businesses to leverage the 24-hour economy, noting that winners would benefit from international partnerships and training programs.
The CEO of Ghana Enterprises Agency, Ms. Margaret Ansei, noted the significance of the 24-hour economy and initiatives like MTN's SME Accelerate Program in driving economic growth. She stated that SMEs were the backbone of Ghana's economy, accounting for over 80% of employment and significantly contributing to GDP.
Mohammed Abubakari-Sidick, Senior Manager-SME and Public Sector at MTN Ghana, described the year-long SME Accelerate Program as a transformative initiative designed to empower SMEs across the country, providing digital transformation, business exposure, and specialized support.