500 Women and Youth-Owned SMEs Receive Export Support Package

More than 500 women and youth-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana have benefited from a nationwide export readiness programme aimed at helping local businesses access regional and international markets.

The initiative, organised by the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) with support from TradeMark Africa, provided participants with practical training in export competitiveness, market access, digital trade, certification requirements and opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

As part of the next phase of the programme, 30 export-ready businesses will be selected to receive direct support to enter foreign markets, while an additional 70 SMEs will receive guidance on export registration and certification processes.

Speaking at a workshop in Accra, the First Vice President of GNCCI, Emelia Assiakwa, encouraged businesses to take advantage of opportunities within Africa by strengthening trade partnerships across the continent.

She noted that the programme was designed to help SMEs at different stages of export readiness, providing tailored support in areas such as customs procedures, certification requirements and market entry strategies.

TradeMark Africa's Programme Manager for Gender and Inclusive Trade, Niango Brice Adou, said the project seeks to empower women and youth-led enterprises to take advantage of national, regional and continental trade opportunities.

He explained that SMEs remain critical to economic growth and job creation, making it essential to equip them with the tools and knowledge needed to compete effectively in international markets.

Source: Graphic Online