By: Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The 4th edition of the Made-in-Ghana Bazaar has opened at the Accra International Conference Centre with a renewed national call to promote local goods and champion Ghana’s export agenda.
Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, delivering remarks at the opening, underscored the urgency of President Mahama’s vision for an “accelerated export development drive.” Departing from his prepared speech, he emphasized that no country can thrive on an import-dependent economy, urging Ghanaian ambassadors and foreign representatives to actively promote Made-in-Ghana products on the international stage.
Using Ghanaian chocolate as an example, Mr. Debrah argued that a vigorous global push for a single product could transform the country’s export fortunes.
He also stressed the importance of cultural storytelling in marketing, recalling how an American visitor was captivated by the history behind a Ghanaian stool and Kente cloth. According to him, weaving heritage into products could give them greater appeal in international markets.
He further reflected on a period under General Acheampong when Ghanaian-made goods dominated the local market, challenging the Ministries of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, and Foreign Affairs to revive such momentum through campaigns and education that instill pride in local products.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, described the Bazaar as a symbol of Ghana’s innovation, resilience, and global aspiration.
“This year’s theme, ‘Championing Economic Diplomacy: Connecting Producers, Markets and Opportunities,’ reflects the critical link between trade diplomacy and trade policy in advancing Ghana’s export and industrial transformation agenda,” he said.
Mr. Ahi announced that a comprehensive brochure of Made-in-Ghana products and export information will be distributed through Ghana’s Missions worldwide. Designed in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, the brochure will evolve into a strategic trade tool, helping businesses align with international demand trends and gain greater market access.
He also highlighted the role of institutions such as the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), and Ghana EXIM Bank in supporting export-ready businesses, attracting investment, and financing Ghanaian enterprises. With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat headquartered in Accra, he stressed that Ghana is well placed to lead in promoting intra-African trade and regional integration.
Reaffirming government’s commitment, the Deputy Minister said Made-in-Ghana should be seen not merely as a label, but as a mark of quality, national pride, and economic opportunity.
The three-day Bazaar, spearheaded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration in partnership with the Ministry of Trade, continues to serve as a platform to showcase Ghanaian products, connect producers to markets, and drive investment opportunities.
