Ghana Mall debuts as premier hub to empower MSMEs and drive economic growth –over 250,000 people expected to benefit

A new trade facilitation hub, the “Ghana Mall,” has opened in Accra, creating a transformative platform for Ghanaian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase, network, and sell their products.

This groundbreaking facility in Nyaniba Estates, Labone, exclusively houses Ghanaian-made goods, products and aims to connect local entrepreneurs with both domestic and international buyers.

Kosi Yankey-Ayeh, CEO of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), highlighted the hub’s impact, noting that over 250,000 people are expected to benefit. “This space provides crucial market access for Ghanaian MSMEs, especially youth and women entrepreneurs, where they can proudly showcase authentic Ghanaian products. There is no imported product here; everything is made by Ghanaians,” she remarked. Yankey-Ayeh emphasized that Ghana Mall will not only strengthen local businesses but also empower MSMEs, which she described as the “backbone of the economy.”

A collaborative effort between GEA and the Mastercard Foundation, Ghana Mall is designed to support entrepreneurs trained by the GEA. The partnership will provide ongoing resources, including guidance on packaging, regulatory compliance, and business development, especially targeting youth and women entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs interested in showcasing their goods can apply through GEA’s business advisory centers.

Looking to the future, Yankey-Ayeh revealed plans to expand Ghana Mall’s concept nationwide and partner with private-sector players. “We’re open to private sector collaborations that can scale this across Ghana,” she stated. With support from Mastercard Foundation, facilities like Jowato in Tamale and Lokko House are potential expansion sites, aiming to replicate the success of the Accra location.

According to the GEA, the total investment in the Ghana Mall initiative is several million Ghana cedis, reflecting the commitment to building a thriving ecosystem for local businesses.

Gottfried Odamtten-Sowah, Acting Head of Entrepreneurship Development at Mastercard Foundation, lauded the Ghana Mall as “more than just a retail space.” He described it as a “vibrant marketplace” where young entrepreneurs’ skills and craftsmanship can shine. “This hub celebrates young Ghanaian talent and advances an entrepreneurial spirit that fuels the economy,” he said, underscoring the Foundation’s commitment to inclusivity, particularly for young women and people with disabilities.

Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry Kofi Ahenkorah Marfo commended GEA’s efforts, calling Ghana Mall a “testament” to the agency’s achievements. He urged the replication of the concept across Ghana’s regions to strengthen the MSME sector, which he sees as the core of the nation’s economic growth. “We’re creating a network and marketing ecosystem that promotes the growth of MSMEs. These enterprises, more than large industries, will form the backbone of Ghana’s economy,” Marfo explained.

Seth Twum-Akwaboah, CEO of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), also praised the Ghana Mall initiative, emphasizing the value of retailing to reach the final consumer in the manufacturing process. He encouraged Ghanaians to support Made-in-Ghana products, commending the improved quality and packaging. The Ghana Mall represents a significant investment in Ghana’s economy, with over $200 million allocated to support SMEs and other direct funding initiatives under the current government’s tenure. This new hub marks a bold step in driving Ghana’s MSME sector forward, strengthening local entrepreneurship, and fostering economic inclusivity.

By Eugene Davis