GFZA CEO embarks on first official visit to Ashanti Region

Dr. Mary Awusi, CEO of the Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA), recently visited the Ashanti Region. Her goal was to strengthen partnerships with Free Zone Enterprises (FZEs). She also assessed operations and inspected the proposed site for the Ashanti Technological Park.

Accompanied by Deputy CEO Mr. Apau Wiredu Lateef and senior officials, this two-day tour reaffirmed GFZA’s commitment to engaging with businesses in the Free Zones program. The visit began at Boankra, where they toured the proposed Tech Park site. This park is part of Ghana’s Special Economic Zones strategy to boost industrialization.

The delegation then visited Premium Foods Ghana Ltd., a licensed FZE that exports cereals. They supply major partners like the World Food Programme (WFP) and USAID. Dr. Awusi praised their achievements and encouraged management to use GFZA’s Aftercare Desk for any concerns. She also mentioned upcoming business expos to enhance visibility for FZEs.

Next, they visited MIRO Forestry and Timber Products in Drobonso. Here, Dr. Awusi commended their Corporate Social Responsibility efforts, including building schools and providing clean water through boreholes. She reminded all FZEs to comply with branding requirements, such as displaying GFZA billboards.

On the second day, the team went to Logs and Lumber Ltd. Discussions focused on challenges related to import duties and transitioning to Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Management noted that the FZE scheme positively impacted their growth and competitiveness.

The final stop was OLAM Ghana, where they discussed improving cocoa processing capacity and job opportunities. Dr. Awusi assured management of GFZA’s ongoing support and emphasized her administration's open-door policy for all stakeholders.