Ghana: EU, GIZ Regional Network MSME Conference held in Kumasi

In collaboration with GIZ, the European Union organized a Regional Network Conference to facilitate knowledge-sharing and address the needs of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), bridging the gap between supply and demand.

It aims to generate employment and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

The event was on the theme Sustainable Solutions for MSMEs Growth and Employment: The Transformational Potential of a Regional Union (Network) of Service Providers.

Despite constituting a significant portion of the country’s economy and contributing to over two-thirds of employment, many MSMEs face challenges such as a lack of essential resources, including proper human resources. Most of them operate without dedicated technical HR personnel and face issues like inadequate financing.

For these reasons, GIZ’s support to the Private and Financial Sector (PFS) programme aims to improve MSMEs’ employment situation in various regions of the country through the annual network conference.

The event engaged stakeholders from financial and insurance service providers, industry associations, government representatives, academic institutions, trade unions, and digital aid and tech industries.

Head-PFS programme, GIZ, Christian Jahn giving a keynote address on the conference’s opening day in Kumasi, said the key to unlocking MSMEs’ full potential lies in collaboration; therefore, a regional association of service providers dedicated to supporting MSMEs is a sure way to go.

“Networks have proven to be catalysts for modern development and provide valuable opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. “The interactive conference will include expert-led discussions, breakout sessions, panel discussions and a marketplace for businesses. This hybrid event also welcomes remote participation from international experts, enhancing its global relevance.”