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has met with the media ahead of the highly anticipated 2025 Kwahu Business Forum, slated for April 19. The forum, now in its second edition under President John Dramani Mahama, is focused on crafting actionable strategies to boost the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), with a spotlight on agro-processing, manufacturing, and export-led industries.
In his address, Mr. Debrah emphasized President Mahama’s commitment to delivering real results beyond political promises.
“President Mahama wants to be a president who walks the talk. His vision is to build real businesses—businesses that produce for export and drive economic transformation,” he stated.
Reflecting on the inaugural forum held during Mahama’s candidacy, Debrah recalled how the President personally engaged business leaders to understand their expectations. “Now that he’s in office, he is keeping that promise,” he added.
This year’s forum is expected to scale significantly, with nearly all state-owned financial institutions confirmed to participate. Many Managing Directors and CEOs have committed to attend, signaling the forum’s growing importance.
Institutions such as the Agricultural Development Bank, National Investment Bank, Republic Bank, and others will unveil funding opportunities specifically tailored for entrepreneurs in agro-processing and manufacturing. The African Development Bank has also expressed interest, with its country representative set to attend.
The event will feature sector-specific breakout sessions running alongside a major exhibition, where entrepreneurs can meet directly with finance experts and pitch their projects. Exhibitions will continue on Sunday, even after the main discussions wrap up, allowing extra time for networking.
A standout feature of this year’s forum is a new initiative: each participating bank will select at least five viable projects to support in 2025.
“If we maintain this momentum annually, by the end of President Mahama’s first term, we could have supported over 600 businesses. That’s how real transformation begins,” Debrah noted.
Looking ahead, he expressed hope that the Kwahu Business Forum will grow into a national event.
“It may have started as a regional platform, but the vision is nationwide. This forum could become the meeting point for entrepreneurs, government bodies like the GRA, and financial institutions across Ghana,” he said.
Mr. Debrah closed with a strong endorsement of the initiative: “Without a vibrant private sector, true development is impossible. This forum is a powerful step forward, and I fully support it. It’s the dawn of a new era for business growth under President Mahama.”
Source:Omanghana.com
