Telecel Ghana has successfully concluded its annual SME Month celebrations with the Telecel Business Runway in Takoradi. The event, held under the theme 'Connect to Growth: Unlock More,' marked the first time the flagship business showcase has been held outside Accra. Over 300 established SMEs, start-ups, young entrepreneurs, financial advisers, investors, and digital enablers gathered for a full day of training, mentorship, market exposure, and cashless commerce.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Telecel Ghana, Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai, welcomed participants and reaffirmed the company's commitment to supporting SME growth. She highlighted Telecel's investment of over 500 million cedis in network expansion and reliability. Despite challenges such as fibre cuts along the Cape Coast–Winneba road, Telecel has secured alternative fibre routes to ensure reliable connectivity to the Central and Western Regions.
Dr. Daniel McKorley, Chairman of the McDan Group of Companies and keynote speaker, emphasized the importance of a clear business model, the right people, and technology for SME growth. He noted that entrepreneurship requires discipline and integrity, and that a well-planned business model is essential for success. McKorley's insights provided valuable guidance for the attendees.
The Special Guest of Honour, Western Regional Minister Hon. Joseph Nelson, highlighted the region's strong prospects across various sectors, including the Takoradi Port, oil and gas, mining, agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, tourism, and logistics. He commended Telecel Ghana for bringing the Telecel Business Runway to the Western Region, promoting inclusivity and opening opportunities across the SME ecosystem.
The Runway featured an interactive panel session with industry experts, including Panyin Osei-Barnieh, General Manager of Chemsolv; Rebecca Odro, Managing Director of Akroma Plaza; Dr. Clement Ansah of Consolidated Bank Ghana; and Eric Amo Jone, Senior Revenue Officer at the Ghana Revenue Authority. The panel discussion provided a platform for attendees to engage with experienced professionals and gain insights into various aspects of business growth.
The event in Takoradi demonstrates Telecel Ghana's commitment to decentralizing business initiatives and promoting inclusivity across the SME ecosystem. By holding the Telecel Business Runway outside Accra, Telecel has provided opportunities for SMEs and entrepreneurs in the Western Region to connect with industry experts, investors, and other stakeholders.
The successful conclusion of the SME Month celebrations and the Telecel Business Runway in Takoradi underscores Telecel Ghana's dedication to supporting the growth and development of SMEs in Ghana. The event has provided a platform for entrepreneurs and businesses to access training, mentorship, and resources essential for their success.
Key points
- Telecel Ghana invests over 500 million cedis in network expansion and reliability.
- The Western Region has strong prospects across various sectors, including the Takoradi Port, oil and gas, mining, agriculture, and logistics.
- The Telecel Business Runway in Takoradi brought together over 300 SMEs, start-ups, and entrepreneurs for training and mentorship.
