The second day of the 2025 Kwahu Business Forum transformed the Mpraeso Social Centre in the Eastern Region into a vibrant hub of financial activity. A diverse range of financial institutions showcased their products and services, underscoring the essential role of finance in fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic expansion. This exhibition served as a tangible demonstration of the forum’s core objective: to provide a platform for businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to connect with financial resources and unlock their growth potential. The forum itself is a flagship initiative launched by President John Dramani Mahama, designed as a catalyst for economic growth and SME development, strategically aligned with the annual Kwahu Easter celebrations to capitalize on the significant influx of people from across Ghana and beyond.
The exhibition hall buzzed with activity as representatives from leading financial institutions engaged with attendees. Key players in Ghana’s development finance landscape, including Exim Bank, National Investment Bank (NIB), and Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), were prominently featured. These institutions play crucial roles in providing specialized financial products and services tailored to the needs of various sectors, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic development agenda. Their presence at the forum signaled a commitment to supporting SMEs and facilitating access to vital financial resources.
Alongside the development finance institutions, major commercial banks such as Ecobank and ABSA Bank Ghana also participated, showcasing their comprehensive range of financial solutions for businesses. Their active involvement underscored the broader financial sector’s recognition of the importance of supporting SMEs, which are widely acknowledged as the engine of economic growth. Furthermore, the presence of development-focused agencies like the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) highlighted the forum’s multi-sectoral approach to promoting trade and economic development, particularly within the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The convergence of these diverse financial institutions at the Kwahu Business Forum served as a powerful testament to the growing recognition of the vital link between finance and economic prosperity. The forum provided a unique opportunity for businesses, especially SMEs, to explore various financing options, connect with potential investors, and gain insights into the latest financial products and services designed to support their growth. The strong emphasis on financial inclusion and access to credit underscored the forum’s commitment to empowering local businesses and fostering a more vibrant and inclusive economy.
The exhibition also served as a platform for promoting the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). By bringing together financial institutions and businesses, the forum facilitated discussions on how to leverage the AfCFTA to expand market access, increase trade volumes, and drive economic integration across the continent. The presence of GEPA, with its focus on export promotion, highlighted the importance of equipping Ghanaian businesses with the necessary resources and knowledge to compete effectively in the expanded African market. The forum, therefore, played a crucial role in raising awareness about the opportunities presented by the AfCFTA and encouraging businesses to take advantage of this landmark trade agreement.
In conclusion, the second day of the 2025 Kwahu Business Forum, centered around the vibrant financial exhibition, achieved its objective of showcasing the critical role of finance in driving entrepreneurship and economic growth. The strong participation from both private and public financial institutions, coupled with the presence of development-focused agencies, created a dynamic environment for businesses to explore financing options, connect with potential investors, and gain valuable insights into the latest financial products and services. By emphasizing financial inclusion and promoting the benefits of the AfCFTA, the forum solidified its position as a key driver of economic development in Ghana and a catalyst for regional trade integration. The strategic alignment with the Kwahu Easter festivities further amplified the forum’s impact, maximizing its reach and solidifying its position as a flagship event for promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth.
