Close to 200 entrepreneurs and businesses in the Volta Region have received certification to export their products to the African market under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) initiative.
The initiative, facilitated by the National AfCFTA Coordination Secretariat, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, aims to connect entrepreneurs and businesses, allowing them to trade within the continent “quota-free and duty-free” as per the AfCFTA tenets.
Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, the Volta Regional Minister, announced this positive development during a media soiree organized by the Regional Coordinating Council.
He emphasized that the initiative offers businesses the opportunity to export to other African countries without quotas or duties, fostering regional economic integration.
Most of the certified businesses are led by young entrepreneurs and first-timers looking to establish business empires, create job opportunities, and enhance the local economy.
Dr Letsa highlighted the achievements of some entities that have already begun exporting directly to the United States and European markets, contributing positively to the local economy.
Some notable businesses mentioned by the Regional Minister include Suncity Farms, Maphlix Trust Ghana Limited and Farms, Kawa Moka, Leklebi and Ziavitutu, Del Christ, and Volta Winery.
These businesses are engaged in various sectors, including agriculture, coffee production, and winemaking.
Dr Letsa expressed satisfaction with the increasing tourism numbers in the Volta Region, attributing the success to the region's attractive features, including landscapes, forests, mountains, and rivers.
He highlighted the Region's status as a popular meeting hub for corporate Ghana, with many organizations choosing Ho for their Annual General Meetings.
The Regional Minister also touched on the “Visit Volta Region, Experience Ghana” initiative, emphasizing that Volta remains a microcosm of corporate Ghana.
He urged investors to explore business opportunities in the region, noting efforts to woo investors during his visits to Kenya and the United States.
Addressing the issue of the Ho Aerodrome, Dr Letsa mentioned the government's strategy to operationalize all domestic airports in the country, which is expected to boost air travel between Ho and other parts of Ghana in the coming year.
He assured investors that the Volta Region is an attractive destination for partnerships.
