Made in Ghana Expo-Canada 2024: Dr. Nana Kweku Nduom appeals to marketing agencies to promote Made-in-Ghana goods
The President of Groupe Nduom, Dr. Nana Kweku Nduom, has appealed to marketing agencies to step up the promotion of the Made-in-Ghana campaign that encourages the patronage and use of goods from the country.
Advertisement
“You will agree with me that our Made-in-Ghana goods have little shelf space and prominence in most sales outlets. Our local brands deserve prime space in our supermarkets and can compete favourably with the foreign brands given the necessary support. Nobody can promote our local brands better than we ourselves, particularly at a time that our borders are widely open to imports,” he said.
Dr Nduom said this at the inaugural conference for the Made in Ghana Expo - Canada 2024.
The event, held in Accra, highlighted the importance of celebrating and leveraging Ghanaian creativity to attract foreign direct investment.
It was on the theme: "Celebrating Ghanaian Creativity to Attract Foreign Direct Investment,"
The Executive Director of the National Commission on Culture and Nkabomhene of Kumawu Traditional Area, Nana Otuo Owuahene Acheampong, chaired the event.
Dr. Nduom said he had the feeling that the country was running out of time in scaling up the Made-in-Ghana campaign although It had been much-talked-about in various circles, from business to football.
He said the launch came as a welcome initiative, particularly at a time that opportunities existed for local content development and participation in various areas of procurement across many sectors.
“I would like to reiterate that promoting goods made in Ghana, not only for foreign consumption but also for local consumption, is a key part of ensuring that our country moves in the right direction economically.
“We have a lot of opportunities but there are also a number of threats, including the implementation of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area if it comes when we are not ready,” he said.
In his opening remarks, Nana Acheampong underscored how Ghana's interdisciplinary arts and innovative technology have the potential to draw international interest and investment.
“As we hold this inaugural conference in anticipation of the grand Expo in Canada from May 2025, which will showcase Ghanaian products, arts, and cultural heritage, we must continue to grow the creative industry," he said.
The event, he said served as a breeding ground for making Ghana an attractive destination for foreign investment.
Rev. Dr Prince Adjei, a Lecturer at the Department of Economics at the University of Ghana, addressing the attendees on behalf of Naana Osamanye Narkie Sikatsu I, also expressed excitement over the shared passion for cultural exchange and the exploration of international markets.
He noted the Made in Ghana Expo Canada as more than just an event, but a movement celebrating Ghana's vibrant traditions and innovative spirit.
The creativity and entrepreneurial prowess of Ghanaians cannot be overemphasized. The time has come for us to take Made in Ghana goods and services, including fashion accessories, music, dance, films, beverages, brass works, leather works, and textiles, to the next brilliant level," Dr. Adjei said.
He articulated the vision of the Expo: to bridge continents, foster understanding, and create opportunities for Ghanaian artisans, entrepreneurs, and businesses to showcase their talents and products.
Dr. Adjei also extended heartfelt gratitude to the team members, partners, and sponsors whose unwavering support has made the launch a reality.