Business mogul and Chief Executive Officer of Dzata Cement, Ibrahim Mahama, has emphasized the need for Ghana to have more locally owned manufacturing companies. This, he believes, will help build a stronger and more resilient industrial base. His comments come at a time when Ghana's manufacturing sector has relatively few large indigenous companies operating at scale.
Ibrahim Mahama made these remarks at the fifth anniversary launch of Dzata Cement on October 6, 2026. He stressed that Ghanaian business owners must have greater confidence in their ability to manufacture locally. This is rather than leaving major industrial ventures largely to foreign businesses. Mahama's call is in line with repeated calls for increased local production and industrialization in Ghana.
According to Ibrahim Mahama, Ghanaians have for far too long put themselves in a position of dependency on foreigners. He noted that it is time for a change, with Ghanaians taking charge of their own industrial ventures. Mahama's vision is to see Ghanaians as employers and not just employees of foreign companies. He wants to prove that Ghanaians can build and manage their own businesses successfully.
Building a stronger manufacturing sector, Mahama believes, is not just about establishing businesses. It also involves creating an environment where Ghanaian entrepreneurs are prepared to take risks. They must develop industries that can survive beyond one generation. This requires parents and business owners to be willing to give their children opportunities to lead. They must also provide the support needed to navigate the risks that come with running a business.
Ibrahim Mahama's approach to business is reflected in his leadership of Dzata Cement. His daughter, Nafisa Ibrahim, serves as the Managing Director of the company. This provides a practical example of Mahama's belief in giving children the opportunity to take risks and manage businesses. Mahama has a business motto that involves starting and running businesses with his children. As they grow, he employs them in the business, teaches them, and eventually retires.
Mahama's business journey spans over 30 years, with his company Engineers and Planners. He has applied the same approach of involving his children in the business. This has prepared them to take over and manage the company's operations. Mahama's experience and success in business have given him a unique perspective on the importance of local manufacturing and entrepreneurship.
Ibrahim Mahama's call for more homegrown manufacturing giants in Ghana is significant. It highlights the need for Ghanaian businesses to take charge of their own industrialization. With more locally owned manufacturing companies, Ghana can build a stronger and more resilient industrial base. This can lead to economic growth, job creation, and a reduction in dependency on foreign businesses.
Key points
- Ghana needs more locally owned manufacturing companies to build a stronger industrial base.
- Ibrahim Mahama emphasizes the need for Ghanaian business owners to have confidence in their ability to manufacture locally.
- Mahama's approach to business involves giving children opportunities to lead and take risks in managing businesses.
