Chief of Staff Julius Debrah briefs press ahead of 2025 Kwahu Business Forum, emphasizes President Mahama’s vision for SME growth and export expansion

Chief of Staff Julius Debrah met with the press recently. This was ahead of the 2025 Kwahu Business Forum. The forum is set for April 19th.

This year marks the second edition under President John Dramani Mahama. The goal is to create a roadmap for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). There will be a strong focus on agro-processing, manufacturing, and export-driven industries.

Mr. Debrah emphasized the President’s commitment to real results in the SME sector. He stated, “President Mahama wants to be a president who walks the talk.” His vision aims to grow businesses that produce for exports and drive economic transformation.

Debrah reflected on last year's inaugural forum. At that time, Mahama was still a candidate. He engaged directly with business community members about their expectations if he won office. “Now that he’s President, he is fulfilling that promise,” Debrah noted.

This year’s forum will be larger in scope. Nearly all public-owned financial institutions are confirmed to participate. Many Managing Directors and CEOs from these banks will attend, highlighting the event's importance.

Financial institutions like Agricultural Development Bank and National Investment Bank will present funding opportunities for entrepreneurs. They will focus particularly on agro-processing and manufacturing sectors. The African Development Bank's country representative is also scheduled to attend.

The event format includes segmented sessions dedicated to key sectors. These sessions will run alongside a major exhibition featuring booths from participating banks. Entrepreneurs can interact directly with finance experts and pitch their ideas.

Exhibitions will continue on Sunday after main discussions conclude. This ensures ample time for networking and engagement among participants.

Mr. Debrah announced an initiative linked to the forum's outcomes: each bank will select at least five bankable projects to support in 2025. “If we keep this going every year for five years, we could support over 600 businesses,” he explained.

Looking ahead, Mr. Debrah expressed optimism about the forum evolving into a national event. He said it may have started regionally but aims for national impact over time.

The vision includes bringing together entrepreneurs, government agencies like GRA, and financiers across Ghana to drive change in the private sector.

Mr. Debrah concluded with a call for support: “Without a thriving private sector, we won’t see real development.” He fully supports this forum as part of a new era for business growth under President Mahama.