During the 2024 Paa Grant Medals for Business Excellence ceremony on Sunday, August 4, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, Member of Parliament for Takoradi and Minister for the Western Region, highlighted the pivotal role that trade and industry play in promoting sustainable development both in the region and across the country. The event aimed at recognizing exceptional businesses and encouraging others. while highlighting the pivotal role of small businesses in the economic development of the region.
The Minister spoke on the theme “The potential of trade and industry for sustainable development” and stressed that the economy is the foundation of any economy as it creates many jobs, generates income, and promotes innovation. While acknowledging the challenges posed by social injustice, climate change, and environmental issues, he expressed optimism about the region’s opportunities. He said: “The Western region has abundant resources such as bauxite, gold, oil, gas and timber. “These resources have the potential to significantly boost industrial development if used effectively.” He also emphasized the area’s potential for agriculture, pointing out that large-scale farming may improve food security and generate long-term employment due to the region’s rich soil and temperate temperature. The area has been recognized as a promising sector for sustainable corporate growth due to its natural beauty, cultural legacy, and eco-tourism opportunities.
To support new businesses and meet the demands of the global market, the minister urged local businesses to improve their professionalism and skills. To create an atmosphere conducive to sustainable trade and industrialization, he called for greater cooperation between the public sector, the private sector, civil society, and individuals. He further assured the crowd that the government will continue to support small and local businesses through several initiatives, such as the newly created Small and Medium Enterprises Opportunity and Growth Fund, which will now be managed in a decentralized manner by regional governments. To take advantage of these new opportunities, he called on business groups and individual entrepreneurs to work with regional administrations. Finally, he urged entrepreneurs to strive for greatness and invited potential investors to explore the Western Region, assuring them of the greatest resources and prospects.
