Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister of Local Government, Religion, and Chieftaincy Affairs, stated that Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) will play a central role in the government’s industrialization drive.
He announced that the government plans to allocate 80 percent of the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF), approximately $2 million annually, to be disbursed directly to Assemblies to drive local economic growth.
He made the announcement at the third edition of the Made in Ghana Business Summit, held under the theme “Promoting Regional Industrialisation and Business Integration in Ghana.”
The summit aimed to foster the consumption of locally made goods and services to drive national economic growth.
Organized by the Entrepreneurs Foundation of Ghana, the event brought together chief executives, captains of industry, business leaders, development partners, members of the diplomatic corps, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across the country.
Mr. Ibrahim said decentralizing resources empowers MMDAs to identify and invest in region-specific opportunities, aligning with the President’s vision for a nationwide “24-hour economy.”
He noted that key initiatives to drive economic growth in local communities include the Feed Ghana Programme, promoting food sovereignty through schools and community farms, and the “Nkuko Kitikiti” Poultry Initiative.
The Minister said that, due to the 24-Hour Economy Market prototype, the government will allocate 20 percent of DACF funds, approximately GH₵825 million, to establish round-the-clock business hubs in every district, featuring warehouses, security services, and childcare facilities.
He disclosed that traditional leaders are collaborating with MMDAs to resolve land disputes and create agro-industrial land banks, while infrastructure improvements aim to attract private investors.
To enhance local consumption, he said the government intends to mandate public institutions to prioritize locally made goods.
Mr. Sam Ato Gaisie, Founder of the Entrepreneurs Foundation of Ghana, emphasized the critical need for industrialization and agribusiness in Ghana.
He said these sectors are crucial for the nation’s economic progress.
Mr. Gaisie stated that the “Made in Ghana Business Summit” is a vital platform for stakeholders to converge, share ideas, and strategize on advancing the economy through these priority areas.
He also stressed the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), advocating for the establishment of at least one major industry in each region to create jobs.
This, he said, would address unemployment challenges, especially given the influx of graduates.
Mr. Gaisie noted that such regional industries, tailored to local products, could employ thousands, counteracting job scarcity exacerbated by technological advancements in industrial processes.
