By: Baba Mohammed Issahaq/ Hamza Lansah Lolly
The Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Ali Adolf John, has opened the third edition of the Northern Trade, Industry and Investment Summit in Tamale with a call on stakeholders to turn opportunities in the region into concrete investments.
Speaking at the opening ceremony at GNAT Hall, the Minister described the summit as a strategic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action to drive growth in trade, industry, and investment. This year’s summit is themed “Enhancing Trade and Industrial Growth through Strategic Investment and Accelerated Export.”
Hon. Ali Adolf John said the summit has, over the years, created vital business linkages, boosted awareness of Northern Ghana’s economic potential, and supported small and medium-scale enterprises with mentorship and training. He stressed that its biggest contribution has been fostering collaboration between the government, private businesses, and development partners.
The Minister outlined several government initiatives under President John Dramani Mahama, including the Big Push Infrastructure programme, the Export Ghana Policy, the 24-Hour Economy Policy, the establishment of a Women’s Development Bank, and the National Apprenticeship Programme. These, he explained, are designed to enhance competitiveness, create jobs, and empower youth and women-led enterprises.
“Northern Ghana is a strategic gateway for trade, blessed with natural resources and a hardworking population. The time to invest in Northern Ghana is now,” he declared, urging participants to move beyond rhetoric to actionable outcomes such as investment deals and new partnerships.
The summit, organised by the Centre for Policy Development and its partners, brings together government officials, traditional leaders, trade associations, development partners, and the private sector. It will feature exhibitions, workshops, and discussions aimed at positioning Northern Ghana as a hub for trade and industry.
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