MTN Ghana launches SMEs Accelerate programme
MTN Ghana, in line with its commitment to fostering the development of local enterprises, has introduced the Small-scale and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Accelerate programme aimed at empowering small-scale businesses to succeed.
The programme is a year-long campaign aimed at enhancing SME engagement with their markets.
As part of the programme, MTN Ghana introduced the “Ädwumapa” bundle, a digital
bundle specifically designed to support women-led SMEs and facilitates connections and offers exclusive access to market opportunities, including SME fairs.
Speaking at the launch in Accra on Friday, Mr Stephen Blewett, stated that the Small-scale and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) sector was diversified and featuring family-owned businesses, and recently a number of technology-driven start-ups.
He stated that 85 per cent of businesses were categorised as SMEs, with a significant number functioning informally.
This informality, he empha
sised, hindered their ability to obtain government assistance and financial resources.
Furthermore, he said, over 60 per cent of these businesses face challenges related to credit, market access, and digital tools, which restricts their growth and competitiveness.
“At MTN, we are committed to moving beyond these challenges to help SMEs thrive. We aim to provide the essential platforms and support services that promote consistent growth for these businesses,” Blewett said.
He indicated that MTN was committed to (SMEs) and remained focused on providing the essential tools, resources, services and support to help them thrive, adding that, “As a leader in delivering digital solutions for Africa’s growth, MTN was dedicated to supporting the success of SMEs through targeted programmes and a comprehensive range of services.
The CEO of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Margaret Ansei, said the MTN’s SME Accelerate programme was timely and aligned with Ghana’s vision of a resilient and digitally empowered SME sector.
She mentioned that the programme was in line with the government 24-hour economy by equipping small businesses with the tools, skills, and digital infrastructure needed to compete globally.
The Bulgarian Ambassador to Ghana, Nico van Staalduinen, in his remarks, observed that SMEs played crucial role in Ghana’s economic development.
He said the Bulgarian embassy was working to create international opportunities for the SMEs participating in the programme, including collaboration with the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce.
BY KINGSLEY ASARE
