The media launch, sought to emphasis the importance of strategic investments, innovation, and market access in fostering industrial growth and boosting exports, while at the same time chartering a clear path for businesses and enterprises in the northern zone to thrive in a dynamic global economy.

It was organised by the Centre for Policy Development (CPD) in collaboration with the Ghana Export Promotion Authority, University for Development Studies, Northern Development Authority, Ghana Free Zones Authority, Ghana Exim Bank, and the Northern Regional Coordinating Council.

It was on the theme: “Enhancing Trade and Industrial Growth through Strategic Investments and Accelerated Export”.
It was attended by key stakeholders in trade and industry, traditional authorities, religious leaders and the media.

Mr Ismail Yahuza, the Executive Director of CPD, said the collaborative initiative was designed to create jobs, reduce unemployment, and improve the living standards of people in the northern part of the country.

He said “There exists a significant development gap between the North and South. The only way to bridge that gap is to boost economic activities, which is the central goal of this initiative”.

He said the year-long initiative would include a grand durbar to kick-start the summit, conferences and seminars, a trade exhibition, and an awards’ night to recognise and motivate deserving businesses and enterprises for their contributions to job creation and employment.

Mr Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur, the Chief Executive Officer, Ghana Export Promotion Authority, whose speech was read on his behalf, expressed the Authority’s commitment to supporting President John Mahama’s agenda to accelerate export development, adding the agenda positioned exports as a key driver of the country’s economic transformation.

He underscored the need for sustained collaboration amongst export support institutions, especially those involved in the summit to help small and medium enterprises become competitive in international markets.

Professor Ibrahim Osman Adam, the Dean, School of Business, University for Development Studies, pledged the University’s support for the summit through research and data provision to guide investment decisions in the region.

He said, “We are also well-positioned to offer capacity-building programmes tailored to the needs of businesses and individuals in Northern Ghana”.

Mr Ali Adolf John, the Northern Regional Minister, who launched the summit, urged stakeholders not to view it as a routine event but rather as a strategic opportunity to promote industrial growth and advance export-led development in the region.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting industrialisation and investment nationwide through programmes such as the Big Push, 24-hour economy initiative, business development, entrepreneurship, agriculture and agribusiness.