The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) has started a roadshow to grow local interest and participation in the Free Zones Scheme in the country.
It is also encouraging more local businesses to take advantage of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The roadshow dubbed, Ghanaian Entrepreneurs for Export, created a platform for leadership of the GFZA to interact with potential investors, associations and business groupings.
Interaction
Interacting with members of the East Legon Executive Business and Fitness Club in Accra, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GFZA, Mr Mike Oquaye Jnr, said: “The Business of Ghana Must be driven and led by Ghanaians”.
“More Ghanaians must get on board to create more wealth and jobs locally, in line with the vision of Ghana Beyond Aid – as espoused by President Akufo-Addo,” he said.
Mr Oquaye said there was the need for Ghanaian investors and entrepreneurs such as members of the East Legon Executive Club to take advantage of the Free Zones Scheme.
This, he said, would be in line with the authority’s vision to assist Ghanaian businesses to export into Africa and the rest of the world.
Perception
He said that contrary to the perception that the Free Zones Scheme was an area fully dominated by foreign companies, available figures show; 31 per cent of businesses were wholly owned by Ghanaians, 33 per cent jointly owned by Ghanaian and foreign interest, and 36 per cent wholly foreign owned.
Members of the club also took turns to ask questions on how to secure a license, challenges with exports into West Africa, the need for the government to support businesses to penetrate other countries among others.
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