By: Joyce Kantam Kolamong
Over thirty businesses and organizations were honored at the 2nd Edition of the Northern Ghana Business Merit Awards and Conference held in Tamale, the Northern Regional capital.
The prestigious event celebrated individuals and institutions that have made remarkable contributions to the socio-economic growth and transformation of Northern Ghana.
The awards aimed to recognize excellence, innovation, and resilience among entrepreneurs and corporate bodies whose work continues to inspire development and job creation across the region.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, emphasized the need for stakeholders within the business ecosystem to play a central role in promoting the growth of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in the Northern Region.
He noted that the collective efforts of entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, traditional authorities, and business associations are crucial in shaping a thriving business environment.
According to him, the actions and inactions of these key players significantly influence the pace and direction of economic growth in the region.
The Regional Minister said the government, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, recognizes the private sector as the engine of growth and the foundation of job creation. To this end, several initiatives, including the National Apprenticeship Programme, have been introduced to equip the youth with employable skills and empower them to contribute meaningfully to national development.
He further noted that the RCC is working closely with development partners and business associations to create an enabling environment where businesses can flourish and drive regional economic transformation.
The Vice Chancellor of the Tamale Technical University, Professor Bashiru Imoro Ibn Saeed, also commended the organizers of the event for recognizing and celebrating individuals and corporate entities that have made significant contributions to the development of Northern Ghana.
He remarked that the region is blessed with a strong network of professionals, entrepreneurs, and institutions and if given the right support and coordination, it us capable of driving positive change and fostering inclusive growth.
Among the award recipients was Savanna Signatures, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) recognized for its outstanding contributions to the socio-economic advancement of the Northern Region. Emefa Ethel Ehla, Head of Programmes at Savanna Signatures, expressed appreciation for the honor and pledged that the organization would continue its mission of empowering vulnerable populations, particularly those in remote communities, through innovative and impactful development initiatives.
