The Kwahu Business Forum — A springboard for economic transformation

As the Easter festivities brought life and energy to the scenic highlands of Kwahu in the Eastern Region, another significant event unfolded—one that may well shape the economic destiny of our nation.

The Kwahu Business Forum emerged not merely as another gathering of elites but as a profound statement of the nation’s collective will to forge a new path of prosperity through innovation, collaboration and visionary leadership.  

President John Mahama’s address at the forum cut through the usual rhetoric of political speeches to deliver something far more valuable—a clear, actionable blueprint for national renewal.

His declaration that this was no ordinary meeting but rather a "call to action" set the tone for what became one of the most consequential economic dialogues in recent memory.

The five-point plan he outlined represents the kind of bold, structured thinking that the country needs at this critical juncture in our development.  

At the heart of this vision lies the need to provide strong support to the small and medium enterprises, which form the backbone of our economy.

The commitment to expand affordable financing for SMEs could potentially unlock the entrepreneurial energy of millions of Ghanaians currently constrained by the lack of capital.

Coupled with plans to modernise our infrastructure, this initiative addresses two of the most persistent obstacles to business growth in our country.  

Perhaps, most forward-looking is the emphasis on agro-processing, ICT, and renewable energy as key growth sectors. In these choices, we see an administration thinking strategically about where global economic trends are heading and positioning the country to claim its place in the new digital and green economies.

The creation of a national venture capital fund specifically targeting youth- and women-led businesses demonstrates an understanding that true economic transformation must be inclusive to be sustainable.  

What made this forum truly remarkable, however, was not just the substance of the proposals but the spirit in which they were presented and received.

In our current era of deep political polarisation, the sight of former leaders, opposition figures and traditional authorities coming together in common purpose sent a powerful message to the nation.

President Mahama's insistence that "economic transformation cannot be held hostage by political rivalry" articulated what many Ghanaians have long hoped their leaders would recognise—that some challenges transcend partisan divides and demand our united attention.  

This rare moment of political unity around economic priorities could not have come at a more crucial time.

With global economic uncertainties creating headwinds for developing nations, and with Ghana facing its own challenges with inflation and debt, the need for bold, coordinated action has never been greater.

The forum's emphasis on public-private partnerships reflects an understanding that the government alone cannot drive the growth we need—it must harness the energy, creativity and resources of the entire nation.  

The measures announced—from streamlining bureaucracy to retooling the financial sector—suggest an administration that has listened carefully to the frustrations of business owners and is determined to remove the obstacles that have long hindered progress.

The focus on financial inclusion through mobile money and digital banking solutions shows an awareness of both the challenges and opportunities presented by technological change.  

As we reflect on the significance of this forum, the Daily Graphic urges all stakeholders to recognise the moment for what it is—a potential turning point in our nation's economic trajectory.

The test now lies not in the elegance of the proposals but in their execution.

Will this spirit of collaboration survive the inevitable pressures of political competition?

Can we maintain the focus on these priorities across election cycles and changes in administration?  

The answers to these questions will determine whether the Kwahu Business Forum is remembered as merely another well-intentioned gathering or as the beginning of a new chapter in Ghana's economic story.

What is certain is that the path outlined at Kwahu—one of unity, innovation and shared purpose—represents our best hope for building an economy that delivers prosperity not just for some but for all Ghanaians.  

The Daily Graphic calls on all political leaders, business figures and citizens to embrace this moment with the seriousness it deserves.

Let us honour the spirit of Kwahu by putting aside narrow interests in the service of our collective future.

For in the end, a thriving economy benefits not one party or group but lifts our entire nation.

This is the promise of Kwahu, and it is a promise we must all work together to fulfil.