2022 Gandhi Peace Walk Held Solemnly

Members of the Indian community in Ghana joined by a number of Ghanaians, to participate in this years  Gandhi Peace Walk, organized by the India High Commission of Ghana, with participants walking through the ceremonial streets of Accra.

Every 2nd October, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, has been declared as the International Day of Non-Violence by the UN General Assembly. 

A number of events are organized throughout the world to recall the spirit, principles, values and relevance of Mahatma Gandhi.

Addressing participant of the peace walk and the media, the The Indian High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E Mr Sugandh Rajaram, emphasized on an urgent need to follow the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi especially truth, non-violence, inclusion, simplicity, cleanliness & ethics.

In his welcoming address, Dr. Collins Yeboah-Afari, the Director General  of the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT, where the event was hosted, indicated that a long standing of friendship and rich tradition between Ghana and India finds it's root in the in the values of Mahatma Gandhi, who lived by truth, nonviolence, love and compassion. He further expressed that the centre setup between Ghana and India government partnership is a product of Mahatma Gandhi's values of

Sarvodaya meaning 'Universal Uplift' or 'Progress of All'.

The 2022 Peace Walk in Accra, was climaxed with offering of flowers, singing the favorite song of Mahatma Gandhi.

India’s freedom struggle owes its success to the independence movement led by Mahatma Gandhi, based on nonviolence and noncooperation.

His conviction that truth is the ultimate weapon, won mass support and revived pride in Indian heritage and culture. It continues to have strong relevance even today and provides a path for conflict resolution that is both attainable and sustainable.

The Phoenix Newspaper Holds Conference On Peace Charter For Forgiveness And Reconciliation For Africa.

Scores of dignitaries made up of traditional rulers, academics, members of civil society and religious leaders across the World, gathered in Accra, at the Movempic Ambassador Hotel, to participate in a peace conference, under the theme: Peace building in the 21st century; a we attaining sustainable peace? 

The Conference had participants

discussing the role of stakeholders in the attainment of sustainable peace in Africa and by a large extent global peace.

In his welcoming address, Prof. John Azuma, the Executive Director of the Sanneh Institute (Ghana), the local organizing partner of the conference, outlined the importance of the event to the attainment of global peace and admonished participant to actively contribute with meaningful and thought provoking ideas towards a successful outcome.

The occasion was also used to introduce the Peace  Charter for forgiveness and reconciliation, by Dr. Josef Boehl, Director of the Peace  Charter for forgiveness and reconciliation.

The were several discussants who dealt with various topics on the theme.

The conference was organized by The Phoenix Newspaper as part of it's 10th Anniversary, dubbed: Be Bold! It was powered by Victoria Mutual  in partnership with Nishkam, Charter for Forgiveness and Reconciliation.

Story By: Hector Wulff

Investing In Ghanaian Industries Is Very Crucial -AGI President Stipulates

 

The President of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Dr. Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke, has expressed the importance of investing in the private sector, particularly local industries for economic growth, transformation and sustainability.

He indicated that, successful businesses drive growth, create jobs, and pay taxes that finances services and investment. 

Adding that, the private sector generates 80 percent of Jobs, funds 60 percent of investment and provide more than 80 percent of government revenues,

making the private sector the best place to invest.

On the need to invest in local industries, the AGI President indicated that “it's very crucial in these times, taking into accounts the

the challenging times in which we find ourselves. “We see the global economy, still reeling from the COVID 19 devastation and then the Russia's invasion of Ukraine, signaling uncertain outlook in the private sector milieu.”

“Against the difficult backdrop, a variety of economic challenges mount our country, including elevated inflation, high cost of the cedi against the dollar, high cost of fuel and high cost of credit.”

“So this gathering is very strategic, to to find pathways of generating investment and capital to advance our Industries.”

“It is imperative to note that no country can ever industrialise without deliberate policies and programmes to support industries or businesses,”

“The government has a role to play by ensuring that an enabling environment is created for industries to thrive, especially with the African single market opportunity created.” Dr. Kwesi Ayim Darke stated.

The AGI President conveyed that, GISE has become the premiere platform not only for the presentation of industry knowledge and concepts, private sector policies and programs, but also for unique networking opportunities and showcase of products and innovations.

He added that the AGI is impressed with the enthusiasm and support demonstrated by sponsors and  patrons over the years, especially the Volta River Authority, NPG, Fidelity  Bank, GIZ and the European Union,

as well as the commitment shown by industry players and the business community to place the GISE as a must attend event.

Dr. Ayim Darke further outlined the objectives of the summit, as a promoter of industrial and investment opportunities to invigorate the private sector, which will impact on economic growth thereby enabling local industries to leverage on the possibilities of the Single African Market.

He also expressed the gladness of the AGI, for the introduction of the Development Bank to inject medium to long-term capital to support industries, as advocated by the AGI over the years.

Dr. Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke outlined, as he welcomed participants, exhibitors and delegates at the opening of the AGI 5th Ghana industrial 

Summit & exhibition actively and keenly involved by captains of industry and the business community.

The Ghana Industrial Summit & Expo under the theme: "Investing in Ghanaian industries to leverage opportunities in the single African Market", is ardently participated by industry players and members of Ghana's business community.

It was opened by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Hon. Alan Kyerematen.

The 3-day event ,at the Labadi Beach Hotel, would end on the 18th 

of August, 2022, from 9am-5pm 

The 5 objectives of the summit are: 

1.To promote innovation and technology, with the aim of enhancing industrialisation.

2.To established and encourage networking between indigenous industrialist and their international counterparts for knowledge sharing.

 3.To engage key government agencies in a constructive dialogue, in search of viable solutions to challenges facing industry.

4.To endeavor to gather all sectors of the economy, to chat a common path towards industrial advancement.

5. To create opportunities between sellers and buyers through match making programmes and exhibitions.

AGI President Joins Panel To Discuss Solution To Ghana's Economic Crisis.

 

Dr Humphrey Ayim-Darke, President of Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), joined Dr John Kwakye, Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA)and Ms.Hamdiya Ismaila, General Manager of the Venture Capital Trust Fund, to address over 100 participants from the business community, academia, civil society and the media, at the just ended Graphic Business, Stanbic Bank Third Quarter Breakfast Meeting, held at the pleasant Labadi Beach Hotel, Accra.

Under the theme: Living Within our means, an imperative for economic success; the AGI President, Dr Ayim-Darke expressed that, Industrialisation and massive investment into productive sectors of our economy is the way forward.

He further indicated that, the structure of Ghana's economy is still very dependent on the export of raw materials, which is not the best for the growth and sustainability of the economy.

He noted that, Ghana still exports all its resources, such as gold, timber, cocoa and oil, in their raw state, which does not fetch enough for the country.

“Over 60 per cent of the items exported are still in the raw state, and as long as you do that, your revenue streams will not be sustainable and enough to meet the various needs and wants of your country”.

“So the limited resources as a result of the pre-colonial structure become a hindrance to living within our means,” Dr Ayim-Darke emphasized.

On enhancing domestic revenue,

Dr John Kwakye, Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) stipulated that, for the country to effectively live within its means, the government must put in place measures to boost domestic revenue.

“As a country, our total revenue is just about $12 billion, so if we have to live within our means, then we must spend either up to that amount or not too higher than that; but that is not enough. $12 billion is peanut for a whole country,” Dr Kwakye opined.

The renowned economist, indicated that, the country was not collecting enough taxes.

For Ghana to effectively live within its means, the government should be able to mobilise about $20 billion in revenue annually, Dr Kwakye exclaimed.

On the need for Ghana to expand the tax net, Ms.Hamdiya Ismaila, the General Manager of the Venture Capital Trust Fund was of the view that, for Ghana to be able to live within its means, it was necessary to widen the tax net to capture a lot more people.

“Less than two million Ghanaians pay tax at the end of the month, out of 30 million. How can two million people pay taxes to finance 30 million people? So, basically, we are starting from zero,” Ms.Hamdiya Ismaila stressed.

She said it was also necessary for the financial industry in the country to provide capital for small and medium enterprises which had the potential to grow and employ more people.

By so doing Ms.Hamdiya Ismaila indicated, new workers who would be employed would also pay taxes, which would increase the country’s revenue base.

To climax the breakfast meeting was a very interactive  questioning and answering session that got all participants agog.

First Ever Pension Fair Held, By Enterprise Trustees: To Mark 10Th Anniversary

"The way forward is to Sign up for a Personal Pension Plan today and secure your future. Dial *714*333# or click the link https://bit.ly/EPPSign-up" says Mr. Joseph Ampofo, Managing Director of Enterprise Trustees, to mark the first ever Retirement Planning Fair, at Ridge, the forecourt of the Advantage Place, Ghana's number one Hub for financial products and transactions. 

This is part of activities to mark the 10th Anniversary celebrations of Enterprise Trustees, aimed at creating awareness on the importance of retirement planing, as a necessity for all, from both formal and informal sectors.

Present at the opening ceremony to lend his support, was the  Chairman of the Enterprise Group, Mr. Keli Gadzekpko.

There was also a cultural display and a dance drama, on the importance of pension planning, coupled with expert panel discussion on the subject.

The fair featured over 20 exhibitors with products ranging from pension planning, insurance, life insurance, investment, personal and health insurance, health, fitness, housing and funeral planning.

Enterprise Trustees, the Pensions Management subsidiary of Enterprise Group Limited (EGL) was incorporated on 8th November 2010 in partnership with the Sanlam Financial Group of South Africa.

It was one of the first Corporate Trustees to be licensed in 2011, by the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA).

Trustee operations however began in November 2012 following the commencement of the Tier 2 & Tier 3 Pension Schemes by the Regulator. Expertise was drawn largely from the Enterprise Group as well as strongly leveraging on its International Partner.

AGI Embraces National AfCFTA Policy Framework And Action Plan With Optimism:

 As they call on the business community and Industry, to join Government in the full implementation of this National Policy Framework.

The President of The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Dr.Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke, has remarked that, the ceremony to launch the National AfCFTA Policy Framework And Action Plan is a milestone on Ghana's journey towards being the largest Single African market.

He said, the ceremony also defines a clear roadmap for our local industries for trade in AfCFTA. 

Dr. Ayim Darke, full of joy expressed that, this is a proud moment for the AGI and it's membership, and that they would like to profoundly thank the Ministry of Trade and Industry and all the architects of this Policy Framework and Action Plan, for their all-inclusive stakeholder engagements that have brought us thus far, as the AGI look forward to the future with optimism.

The AGI President indicated that, trading effectively within AfCFTA, goes beyond the launch of the policy framework and action plan, mentioning that, "there is the need to augment local production capacity in a competitive manner, granting our industries the support to progress into export-oriented production." 

 "It is also our expectation that the National AfCFTA Policy Framework, including the Phase 1 negotiations, will prioritize interventions for Industry, to accelerate Ghana’s Industrial Transformation Agenda."  

"The disruptions in global supply chains across the world, on account of the COVID  pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war, precipitate our need to develop local supply chains within Africa with the National AfCFTA framework as our catalyst",Dr. Ayim Darke expressed.

 He further communicated that:

"Given that some of our businesses are already in the sub-region trade markets, it is obvious that a good number of us are yet to leverage on the provisions of AfCFTA, for reasons of constraints, which include capacity and competitiveness."

"We have seen troubling contractions in manufacturing sub-sector’s contribution to GDP growth rate, thus from 2.3% in Q4 of 2021 to 0.6% in Q1, 2022." 

 "However, Deepening economic engagement is crucial vis-à-vis well aligned regional policies, and trade regulations, especially where we have signed unto other trade agreements, such as the UK Partnership agreement, the interim Economic Partnership Agreement."

 Dr. Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke conveyed that, drawing from the ECOWAS experiences:

"We call on all the relevant institutions to help eliminate the Non-Tariff-Barriers, which continue to frustrate regional trade development and integration. 

He concluded by calling on the business community and Industry, to join Government in the full implementation of this National Policy Framework, to deliver concrete benefits and transform trade in this Single Continental market, with AGIs belief that, the success of this National Policy Framework will be to the mutual benefit of our Private sector and Government for job creation and shared prosperity."

5Th Ghana Industrial Summit and Exhibition Launched.

Over 50 exhibitors and 150 people representing the Private Sector, Government Functionaries, Development Partners and international participants are expected to actively partake in the Ghana Industrial Summit and Exhibition (GISE'22)

The Summit and Exhibition, which will be held at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra from the 16th to 18th August, 2022, is under the theme "Investing in Ghanaian industries to leverage opportunities in the single African Market".

Performing the launch at the AGI Secretariat, the AGI President, 

Dr. Humphrey Ayim Darke, stated that, the idea behind the Ghana Industry Summit and Exhibition, which started 5years ago, is inline with AGI vision to create a supportive and competitive business climate. Adding that, the Summit has always been set around five objectives, to create an annual global platform for industries to share ideas.

The 5 objectives are: 

1.To promote innovation and technology, with the aim of enhancing industrialisation.

2. To established and encourage networking between indigenous industrialist and their international counterparts for knowledge sharing.

 3. To engage key government agencies in a constructive dialogue, in search of viable solutions to challenges facing industry.

4.  To endeavor to gather all sectors of the economy, to chat a common path towards industrial advancement.

5.  To create opportunities between sellers and buyers through match making programmes and exhibitions.

The AGI president stipulated that, the summit since its inception has made great inroads in shaping the economy, which output has informed programmes being designed by government.

The investment summit, as part of the event, shall create an ecosystem for equity investors to engage businesses in their bid create value, Dr. Ayim Darke, indicated. He further expressed investment prospects for companies in agribusiness and agro processing during the summit, as investment in these sectors have stagnated over the years, due to policy inconstancies. Adding that, the exhibition brings together an array of businesses spread across the entire sectors; from cosmetics, food & beverages, household items, health products, garments & textiles, electrical cables, hotel and hospitality, building, construction and property.                          Dr. Humphrey Ayim Darke lamented that, “Our businesses are in trying times.”

“The fast depreciation of the cedi, escalating fuel prices, rising fuel prices and public debt are of deep concerns to industries. Our strong recommendation is that in engaging the IMF, we must pay maximum attention to the industrial and agricultural sectors of our economy to hasten recovery.”

“Part of the reason for our economic crisis is the dependence on imported goods. We call for incentives to encourage local manufacturing to arrest this challenge”, the AGI President stressed.

Present at the media launch were representatives from various partner organisations, including Mr. Massimo Mina, Head of Cooperation, EU Delegation to Ghana, Mr. Sean M Duggan, Investment Promotion Expert with the EU-GESP, Mrs. Bellona Vittor-Quao from the Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG), Dr Ebenezer Tagoe, Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Finance at Fidelity Bank, Alex Agyei Amponsah, Director, Commercial & SME at Fidelity Bank, among others.

AGI DIALOGUES WITH PARLIAMENT

Scores of business people and industrialists, predominantly members of the Association of Ghana Industry (AGI) and it's top brass, On Wednesday, July 20, 2022 at the , actively and enthusiastically participated in the AGI dialogue session with the leadership of Parliament, to  deliberate on how the work of Parliament impacts on Industry, at the Accra International Conference Centre.

The high-profile event, sponsored by B5 Plus Group and Voltic Ghana Limited, was over subscribed. 

Under the theme"Promoting Ghana’s Industrial Development Agenda: the role of Parliament",

had in attendance the MP for Suame and Majority Leader of Parliament, Hon. Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu. 

Also in attendance was MP for Ellembele and Ranking Member on the Trade, Industry and Tourism Committee of Parliament, 

Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, representing the Minority Leader of Parliament.

In his opining address, the AGI President, Dr. Humphrey Ayim Darke  indicated that, this meeting comes at a time that we all seek to find solutions to our the challenges that confronts us as a nation, such as the current exchange rate situation, fuel price hikes, external shocks of the Ukraine - Russia conflict that has created  quite a turbulent time for our industries and the economy, as the Central Bank is seen deploying monetary policy tools to contain an unyielding inflation.

Adding that, the Ghana Statistical Service have just released the producer price index for industry in the month June, at 38% from 33.3% in may this year. 

" This is quite alarming"

Dr. Ayim Darke stressed.

He pointed out that, the nature of parliament today offers a great opportunity for both Minority and Majority to build consensus and to work closer in enacting laws that will accelerate Ghana's industrial agenda, because the nation is at a crossroads.

The AGI president expressed regret that, events leading to the enactment and passage of the famous E-levy law, could have been managed to repose business confidence and steer our economy through the turbulent effect of the rating agencies, which remains a major threat to our economy.

He hinted that, AGI foresees

the IMF negotiations impacting on this year mid term budget and beyond. Indicating that, the long term solution to our economic quagmire, hinges on our collective ability to develop the competitive productive sectors, which will generate revenue and jobs.

Dr. Ayim Darke, further indicated the negotiations with the IMF must reflect support for local industry in its structural transformation.

He said, it is the humble request of the AGI, that the Minority and Majority avert their minds to adopt policies that will spur growth of local industry, promoting local content to enhance export market development in diversification to leverage on the Intercontinental free trade agreements.

The AGI President, underscored the need for the dialogue, explaining that due to the critical role of Parliament in advancing the country's development agenda, it is crucial for the institution to periodically engage with industry in order to appreciate their concerns. 

He assured the gathering that the dialogue session will be institutionalised as a key event on the calendar of activities for the AGI. 

In his presentation to the business community, the MP for Suame and Majority Leader of Parliament, 

Hon. Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu said, it is  important to appreciate the role of the private sector, as he provided the historical antecedents which had impacted positively and negatively on the sector.The Majority Leader, also outlined this government's policies that has created an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive; such as the 1D1F, the role of GIPC in facilitating investment and business growth. He hinted that  work is been done in parliament on the tax exemption bill.

Representing the Minority Leader, the MP for Ellembele and Ranking Member on the Trade, Industry and Tourism Committee of Parliament, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah

expressed the need for government to provide sustainable, and not cosmetic enabling environment to enhance real growth, productivity and transformation of the private sector.

Dr. Peter Quartey, Director of Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER), praised the AGI for the initiative to engage Parliament, academia and research bodies. Adding that,

"there is a lot we can learn together"

The climax of the forum was the questioning and answering session which saw participant asking pertinent questions affecting business growth in Ghana and proposing solutions to our economic challenges.

Other dignitaries present at the dialogue included Dr. Tony Oteng-Gyasi, Past President of AGI and Founder, Tropical Cable and Conductor Ltd, , and Dr. James Asare-Adjei, Past President of AGI and Founder of Asadtek Group Ltd.

A book prescribing solutions to Africa's challenges launched.

Dozens of citizens from all walks of life witnessed the grand and colourful launch of a book written by Madam Beatrice Maku Ogah, an astute educationists and technocrat, at the Teachers Hall, Accra.

The book, titled - The Challenges Of Africa And Their Solutions, outlines a number of prevailing challenges hindering the progress of Africa and contains appropriate solutions to these challenges through effective role of technocrats as key change makers and drivers of the new African dream devoid of petty partizan politics, corruption and ethnocentrism.

Appropriately representing the Chairman for the occasion, Sir(Dr) Sam Jonah was Mr. Jonny Entsuah who eloquently and intelligently chaired the event to its expected end.

There were numerous speakers who reviewed the book and gave solidarity messages.

Notably among them was Mr. Kwesi Pratt Jnr. Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, and the Queen Mother of the Osudoku Traditional Area, Manye Ampnonsah Dokua lll.

"Food, clothing and shelter, if you want to rely on others for these, then you are not serious about making progress". Those were final words of Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang an academic and former Minister for Education, Representing former President  John Dramani Mahama as special guest,  as she declared the book duly launched.  

- Ghana News Service Online

Full Gospel Business Men Fellowship Holds Christian Men's Health Walk

As part of efforts to enhance Christian evangelism and to promote healthy lifestyle through exercise, the Ghana branch of Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International (FGBMFI), 

in their bid  to reach men in all nations for Jesus Christ and to call men back to God, have mobilized scores of men from various men's fellowships of more than seven churches, under the FGBMFI Christian Men Association banner. This years Annual Christian Men's Health Walk was sponsored by Locozade energy and AFC Industries, producers of Africola.

Addressing participants, the National President of Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International (FGBMFI), Mr Emmanuel Mahamah,

stipulated that, God does not dwell in temples made of hands and that our bodies are temples of God.

Mr. Mahamah added that we are the resident of the living God. Therefore, where two or three people are gathered in his name, God is there.

Mr. Mahamah admonished men to make a deference, by being change makers brightening the corners where they are one at a time.

Speaking to the media, Mr. Enamel Ashong, the National Director of Public Affairs, Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International (FGBMFI), indicated that Jesus Christ is the motivation for the programme, aimed at bringing Christian together to win souls for Christ, as part of the mandate of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International (FGBMFI).

Mr. Ashong indicated that through the engagement of various men's fellowships of churches, this annual vent will grow leaps and bounds.

Ghana Chamber Of Telecommunications Holds 20Th Knowledge Forum Series

It was a platform of extreme knowledge interchange and thought provoking engagement at the

20th Knowledge Forum Series
Organized by the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications , as part of activities to mark it's 10th anniversary.
Under the theme: The Impact of telecom industry on agriculture, education, entertainment and health.

Stakeholder were thrilled with the quality of knowledge and information shared by the speakers.
In his keynote presentation,

Dr. Ing Kenneth Ashigbe, expressed the impact, vitality and importance of telecommunications and how it must be leveraged towards the advancement and development in areas of agriculture, education, entertainment and health, for industrial transformation, citizen wellbeing and nation building.

Mr.George Quaye, made a brilliant presentation on the impact of telecommunications on the entertainment sector, did justice to issues of the entertainment industry in the past, challenges, developments and the way forward on how technology have significantly changed the scope of the industry.

Prof. Fred MacBalogun also thought provokingly, took participants through the impact of telecommunications on education.Indicating that "Any nation that is unable to leverage on knowledge is in crisis and as such cannot developed"

Mr. Anthony Morrison and Dr. Yaw Ofori-Adjei  intelligently and intellectual made presentations on the impact of telecommunications on the agriculture and health respectively.

It's was quickly followed by the interactive and Q&A session of the programme. 

AGI Leadership Meets with Governor of Bank of Ghana.

AGI President, Dr. Kwesi Ayim Darke led a delegation to pay a courtesy call on the Governor of Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison at his office last week. 

The meeting focused on several microeconomics and financial policy issues that impact on industries.

The AGI delegation included Dr. Tony Oteng-Gyasi, AGI Past President and MD, Tropical Cable and Conductor Ltd, 

Dr. Grace Amey-Obeng, Vice President for SMEs, Mr. Seth Twum-Akwaboah, AGI CEO, Mr. Stephen Oduro, the Managing Director of SIC Insurance and Chair for AGI Financial Services.

Others are Mr. Abeku Gyan-Quansah, Partner of PwC Ghana, Reggie Sackey Addo, General Manager of Irani Brothers and Mr. Jojo Quayson, AGI PR & International Relations Manager.

11th AGI Ghana Industry & Quality Awards Officially Launched.

It was an evening of enormous excitement at the Coconut Grove Regency Hotel, in Accra, among invited guest, consisting of AGI leadership and stakeholders, including Mr. Seth Twum-Akaboah, the CEO of AGI,  Mrs. Nora Bannerman-Abbott, the Chairperson of the awards planing committee, Mr. Ralph Ayitey, AGI National Executive Council Member, Mr. Clifford Frimpong, Deputy Director General, Conformity Assessment, Ghana Standards Authority, Hon. Michael Baafi Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, representatives of the private sector, sponsors, partners and the media.

Mrs. Nora Bannerman-Abbott, the Chairperson of the awards planing committee welcomed the guest and indicated the historical antecedents of the awards scheme, outlining its categories and entreating the businesses and industrial community to sponsor.

In his brief remarks, Mr. Ralph Ayitey, AGI National Executive Council Member expressed the significance and credibility of the awards.

Mr. Clifford Frimpong, Deputy Director General, Conformity Assessment, Ghana Standards Authority, stipulated the role of the FDA, as a partner to ensure competitiveness and credibility of the awards, inline with good quality standards and best practice.

Addressing the gathering,

Hon. Michael Baafi Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, commended the AGI for the consistency and sustainability of the awards scheme.

He said this years edition expresses resilience by industry, who have structurally adjusted against all odds to achieve business excellence and to continue to contribute to the growth and development of Ghana, expressing government's commitment in creating the enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

Hon. Michael Baafi also hinted participants that the National Quality Policy which will pave way for government investment is laboratories to ensure and enhance international product standards has been approved by Cabinet. 

He said, it will see to government instituting the National Quality Awards aimed at setting industrial standards and enhancing quality.

Mr. Seth Twum-Akaboah, the CEO of AGI in an interview with Ghana News Service, indicated that the AGI has been very consistent with the Awards  scheme, praising GSA for their involvement to ensure quality credibility and competitiveness.

Mr. Seth Twum-Akaboah added that the theme for this year's awards is center on enhancing collaboration between private and public sectors for solution prescription.

To climax the Awards launch, certificates 

of honour were presented to 21 loyal sponsors who have been associated with the awards scheme over the years.

The dedicated sponsors include, Activa Int. Insurance, Olam Agri Ghana, Nexans Kabelmetal, B5 Plus,Wilmar Africa Ltd, Textiles Ghana Ltd, Merico Solutions Ltd, Samartex Ltd, GB Foods, 

Aqua Safari Resort, Goil Ghana Ltd. Zoomlion Ghana Ltd, Ghacem Ltd, 

Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Ltd, 

Accra Brewery Ltd, Guinness Ghaa Brewery Ltd, Qualiplast Ltd, 

GCB Bank,  Kasapreko  Co. Ltd and Ecobank Ltd.

5Th Institute Of Applied Science And Technology(IAST) Industry Academia Interaction Series Marked.

Scores of people representing academia, industry, the business community, key government institutions and students enthusiastically participated in the

5Th Institute Of Applied Science And Technology (IAST) Industry Academia Interaction Series, which was held at the ISSER Conference Centre, University of Ghana, Legon.

The event which was chaired by the

President of the Association of Ghana Industrial (AGI), Dr. H. Kwesi Ayim Darke,witnessed a cocktail of long interesting speeches on the theme:

 “Industry-Academia-Government Connect: Harnessing the relationship during a pandemic”.

In his welcoming address the Director of IAST, Prof. George OduroNkansah, indicated that the pandemic has thought us lessons. Businesses folded up, some laid off staff whiles others had to take drastic cost-cutting measures. 

The result was a monumental refocusing of business strategies for survival. Industry-Academia collaborations that were already on knife-edge were shoved away. Indeed, the schools were closed so it made business sense to not engage us. These were periods of uncertainty and even mistrust.

Prof. George Oduro Nkansah emphasized that with all this doom, there was a silver lining. 

Citizens started asking, and rightly so, why the university professors were not “inventing” vaccines or providing clarity of information on the pandemic. Government, businesses and individuals donated money, logistics, food and any item they have to research institutions like Noguchi, WACCBIP, etc., to re-energize and motivate the overworked staff. TV and radio shows had experts from academia as regular panellists. People wanted expert advice and realized the importance of academia at this point. 

Prof. George Oduro Nkansah said, “we have seen the countries that reaped the rewards for their continuous support of academia”.

Today, we are gathered here to discuss a very relevant topic: “Industry-Academia-Government Connect: Harnessing the relationship during a pandemic”. 

“There are those who might say this is an overburdened subject, however, for university-industry collaborations, this is a relevant and timely discussion that needs to be had. Yesterday and today, it is a pandemic, tomorrow may be World War III, and the day after, it may be unimaginable. The time for deeper, meaningful and impactful collaboration should be a top priority of any serious country which has seen the ravages of this pandemic. The rhetoric of “paper” collaborations and tokenism coupled with the insignificant investment in academia is bound to collapse our future. We are going to have under-educated citizens competing in this knowledge-based era”.

Prof. George Oduro Nkansah took the opportunity to invite all participants to the official opening of our Industry-Academia Exhibition. 

In a speech read on behalf of Prof. Boateng Onwona- Agyeman , Provost, College of Basic and Applied Sciences 

by Prof. Elvis Kwason Tiburu , indicated

that, the 5th IAST Industry-Academia Interaction Series is significant and timely for a number of reasons. First, the establishment of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST) in 2012 was in recognition of the fact that the problems of development require not just interdisciplinary applied research but also a greater and deeper collaboration between academia, industry and government. 

Therefore the Institute was to mobilize UG faculty and their partners, as well as resources to deliver knowledge, innovation and technology to industry in a targeted manner to facilitate their further development. The Provost said, over the years the IAST Industry-Academia Interaction Series has created mutual platforms where industry players come face-to-face with academia to discuss high-level local and international innovative technologies for collaborations and promote strategic partnerships between the University of Ghana research faculty in different disciplines and Industry among others.

The Managing Director of Zoomlion Ghana Limited Mrs. Gloria Opoku Anti on behalf of the Executive Chairman of Jospong Group of Companies Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong delivered a key note address.

She spoke around the theme: “Industry-Academia Relationships – The Jospong Group”.

 Expressing that, despite the achievements with academia over the past years, the Group still believe this partnership needs to be strengthened. 

“As the Group moves to become a fully Integrated Waste management company with focus on value addition, we can say we need such partnerships more than ever.''

“The company will continue to benefit from graduates from academic institutions at all levels and from different parts of the world. This will sustain the human resource needs of the company for now and the future. We look forward in giving feedback to academia to ensure that our graduates easily fit into the working environment upon completion".

“Today I am happy to tell you that the Group is currently looking forward to the implementation of 41 waste recovery and treatment plants across the nation. With this about 80% of solid, liquid, and medical waste will be managed in the most sustainable way with positive impact on public health, environment and the economy"

The event was climaxed with a grand exhibition by representatives of the private sector, industry, academia, government institutions.

(AGI) commends (GRA) for engagement opportunity.

The Chief Executive Officer of AGI,

Mr. Seth Twum Akwaboah on behalf of the association, sincerely expressed appreciation to the GRA for the engagement programme.

According to Mr. Seth Twum Akwaboah, the workshop which seeks to sensitize, engage and educate members on some of GRA's policies and recent initiatives that impact on business, will go a long way to enhance tax compliance and to shape future engagements.

The AGI CEO, also commended the GRA for going digital to make compliance easy, indicating that going digital means that digital infrastructure must be efficient.

He urged the GRA to help build the capacity of AGI members to enhance compliance, expressing that compliance is about capacity and it is expensive.

In his remarks, Col.Rtd. Kwodjo Damoah, Commissioner of Customs Division of GRA, indicated the commitment of the GRA to work in the interest of businesses in Ghana to grow.

Col.Rtd. Kwodjo Damoah indicated that GRA, for meaningful trade facilitation and revenue mobilisation sees the need for continues engagement with stakeholders and will extend the awareness creation process throughout the regions.

The sensitization workshop which took place at the plush Alisa Hotel, North Ridge, is an AGI collaboration with Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) discuss and educate members on some of GRA's policies and recent initiatives that impact on business including, the discount values on goods and services, the GRA taxpayers’ portal, the 4% flat rate, and a presentation on e-levy, including electronic money transfer transactions.

AGI Throws Weight Behind Authorities To Redevelop Accra

It was an atmosphere charged with optimism, laced with the burning desire by captains of industry, members of Ghana's business community, city authorities and the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, to transform the City of Accra and by a large extent the Greater Accra Region, into a business destination in West Africa.

Addressing the gathering of members of the private sector, investor community, representatives of Greater Accra Regional, Metropolitan and Municipal Authorities, the President of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Dr. Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke, expressed a strong commitment and dedication on the part of  AGI to support the government in it's bid and efforts to redevelop Accra into a modern business and investment hub.

The  AGI President, acknowledged government's efforts to attract and retain investments in Ghana and affirmed the support of the association for the noble initiative championed by Hon.Henry Quartey, the Greater Accra Regional Minister.

Dr. Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke, eulogized Hon. Henry Quartey, for his result orientedness, passion, determination and hard work, to transform and modernize Accra.

The AGI President, indicated that the association is determined to extend tremendous support to Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, to achieve the Capital City's redevelopment objective.

Dr. Ayim Darke, also said authorities should consult the AGI, when it comes to determining property rates and permits as he concluded with the need to achieve the Accra redevelopment agenda devoid of red tapism, political interferences and excessive self interest.

Opening the conference, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, 

Hon. Henry Quartey, expressed appreciation to the AGI for the collaboration. He indicated that the private sector is a credible and vital ally towards the achievement of Making Accra Great agenda. 

Hon. Henry Quartey stressed that government is increasingly looking into the private sector as a resource mobilisation instrument to bridge the funding gab for development.

There were presentations from the Regional Coordinating Council and other stakeholders on modernizing Accra through various initiatives including the Automotive Enclave project, the Sustainable use of Natural Resources and Energy Finance (Sunref) project which also presented opportunities for financing of renewable energy projects and the Accra Eco-Park development project as well.

To climax the conference, participants were taken on a tour through the Central Business District, especially Agbogbloshie, to asses progress made by authorities in clearing the areas off squatters and filth to make way for the Accra Eco-Park project. 

The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), in conjunction with the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, held the Greater Accra Investment Opportunities Conference, under the theme "The New Face of Greater Accra: Collaborative Cities and Private Sector to Achieve Accelerated Development".

Hands Across Africa Launched

It was a passion filled night, infused with overwhelming enthusiasm, with a genuine desire to impact positively on young people in Africa.

Inspired by Mr Seth Yeboah Ocran, CEO of YOKS Investment Company Limited in partnership with Ambassador Taj Weekes and Angela, Taj Weekes, leaders of the They Often Cry Outreach (TOCO) to operationalize a charity concert to raise funds to support disadvantaged young people in various communities in Ghana; particularly in the Greater Accra region.

The Hands Across Africa Festival and Expo, seeks to serve as a cross-continent initiative with the objective to leverage the platform of reggae music and to extend support to young people on the downside of social and development issues.

Through youth sports talent exposure, support, promotion and capacity building.

During the launch, Mr. Seth Yeboah Ocran,YOKS Investment Limited and Executive Director of TOCO foundation, expressed that the event is to bring much needed change and shape the future outlook of marginalized children in the Ghanaian society.

Indicating that “TOCO Foundation, YOKS Investment Limited and the Ghana Tourism Authority are collaborating to bring to Ghana what is intended to an ongoing effort with a tangible impact on Ghanaian youth. Its overarching philosophy is that children are our collective heritage; one we can safeguard with inclusion and affirmation strategies.”

Mr. Seth Yeboah Ocran continued to stipulate that Hands Across Africa Festival & Expo leverages its platform to help the youth to broaden their horizon, through this exposure, imagine new possibilities, which can create a shift in the trajectory of their lives.

In his address, Ambassador Taj Weekes, founder of TOCO Foundation communicated that, the benefit of the initiative will help to connect bridges of opportunities for young people.

“I think I speak for many when I say that the opportunity to walk this soil is the dream for most people of African descent. And it is this inherent longing that makes the Ghanaian people, the landscapes and the sense of community so familiar for us.”

“We thank you tremendously for the opportunity to widen our TOCO community, and in so doing, build new bridges that connect people with each other, and link youth with opportunity and in some small way, transform lives,” Ambassador Taj Weekes expressed.

The initiative which has overwhelming support of the Ghana Tourism Authority, had its able and affable CEO, Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, to address the anticipating and enthusiastic audience at the launch saying, AGOOO, AGOOO, AGOOO, as a prelude to his address, as he expressed that, the initiative aligns with the ‘Give back Ghana’ pillar of Beyond The Return for which reason the Authority will accord TOCO Foundation the needed support.

TOCO Foundation is a USA/Ghana based non-profit organization with a mission to raise awareness and address the issues that affect the youth through advocacy and social support. The organisation’s broad focus also includes the sustainable agriculture, environment, health and wellness, diabetes and gender equity and the popular, TOCO Youth Tournament – a college player showcase, which aims at exhibiting Ghana’s football talent for US college coaches in the hope of securing football scholarships.

The Africa Festival and Expo & Youth Tournament will take place in the months of July and September respectively this year.

By: Hector Wulff, Ghana News Service

AGI President Addresses India-Ghana Business Summit

Dr. Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke,
President, AGI

It was a night of great business focused presentations, coupled with intense diplomacy and comradery among captains of industry, over a sumptuous dinner, at the just ended India-Ghana Business Summit, held at Kempinski Hotel,Gold Coast City, Accra Ghana, under theme:

 “ Strengthening India - Ghana Business Relations, Post COVID''.

The summit which was organised by the India High commission, in partnership with the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) was highly subscribed by both members the India and Ghana business communities.

In his address, the President of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Dr. Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke engaged the anticipating audience of captains of industry, government representatives and media, expressing that, Ghana is home to many Indians, 

as he appreciates how a great number of Indians have made Ghana their home with their treasures and investments, urging the Indian business community to move beyond family businesses to enlist on the Ghana stock exchange and the Alternative Market, beyond limitations and families.

Dr. Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke,

advocated for partnerships in technical cooperation, particularly in the area of agribusiness, in terms of value addition and processing. 

Indicating that agriculture is one area which requires serious intervention for economic transformation.

The AGI president, expressed with subtle vehemence on the need to place export  tariff on the primary raw agriculture products (non cash crops) to encourage processing, job creation, value addition, domestic tax generation and structural transformation of the economy And food security for the nation.

On the issue of policy inconsistencies and restoration of the benchmark values, Dr. Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke, added that government has given assurances to ensure policy consistency and to deal with the benchmark values albatross, by end of the year, assuring industry that, AGI shall constantly engaged government to make sure that the proper thing is done for industrialization and harmony in the economy.

In his concluding remark, the AGI President encouraged members of the Indian business community to associate themselves with the association towards industrial longevity and sustainability.

Queen Mother Dazzles At 2022 Jewelry Art Show

Hail The Creative Queen Mother!

Naa Fynnba Korkai Atiapa I, Developmental and Benkumfa Queen Mother of Ngleshie Alata Lafa, traditional area, the Chief Creator of Wendy L' artisane, whose creations coupled with body arts and jewelry named Ocean Treasure Jewelry, glitterized and electrified audience at the 2022 Jewelry Art Show.

Dubbed:Box of trinkets.

The creative Queen in an interview with Ghana News Service was happy about the success of the event though at shot notice and indicated how the event seeks to serve as a international platform to showcase African creativity and talent.

AGRITECH West Africa 2022 Opens In Grand Style

Deputy Minister for Agriculture Hon. Mohammed Hardi Tufeiru opens AGRITECH West Africa 2022 pioneered by the Agriculture Community of West Africa States (ACOWAS), being held at the Accra International Conference Centre in a grand style from 23-25 of March, 2020.

In his opening address, He indicated that agricultural exhibition must be embraced by stakeholders because it serves as a platform to share ideas, experiences and challenges as well. 

The Minister in his usual humble self, took time to visit all the 60 exhibition stands acquainting himself with various exhibits such as agricultural machinery, technology, food processing equipments, fertilizers and many others.