{
  "id": 11740439,
  "title": "Government urges SMEs to embrace digitalisation for growth and job creation",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/03/government-urges-smes-to-embrace-digitalisation-for-growth-and-job",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-03T18:17:49.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "MyJoyOnline Ghana",
    "slug": "myjoyonline-ghana",
    "url": "https://www.myjoyonline.com/government-urges-smes-to-embrace-digitalisation-for-growth-and-job-creation/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Government has encouraged Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana to invest in digital technologies and innovation to boost productivity, minimize operational waste, and generate more job opportunities. Noah Tumfo, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, emphasized that SMEs are vital to Ghana’s economic growth, especially given the high unemployment rate straining the formal sector. The government aims to create an enabling policy and regulatory environment that allows entrepreneurs to innovate, expand their businesses, and generate sustainable jobs. Tumfo highlighted that SMEs are the backbone of development, and their growth would benefit the entire country.\n\nAt an SME awards program, Tumfo underscored the importance of digitalization as a key tool for SMEs to identify operational challenges and enhance efficiency. He cited a recent project carried out by his ministry in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and the Government of Japan. The project assisted SMEs in using technology to detect issues on their shop floors and devise targeted solutions. Tumfo stated that such efforts can aid businesses in reducing waste and concentrating more resources on expanding their productive capabilities.\n\nThe Chief Director also revealed that the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA) is the primary government agency responsible for offering direct support to SMEs through training, grants, funding options, and soft loans. While the Ministry establishes the policy and regulatory framework, GEA and other agencies handle the practical assistance needed to address operational challenges. Tumfo explained that the broader goal is to help Ghanaian SMEs expand beyond the domestic market and compete internationally. He stressed that venturing into international markets would enable businesses to generate foreign exchange and contribute significantly to the national economy. Therefore, he urged entrepreneurs to view SME awards as motivation to enhance their businesses, create additional jobs, and boost productivity.\n\nKwesi Ofori Jnr, Executive Director and Co-founder of SME Grow Africa (SMEGA), stated that SMEs should also focus on strengthening their business structures and capacity to attract investments and access international markets. Since 2013, SMEGA has been working with SMEs to identify suitable partners, enhance their business positioning, access training, and connect with investors and new markets. Ofori Jnr. mentioned that the organization has facilitated market and investment opportunities for businesses across Africa, Europe, and Asia. He emphasized that SMEs' ability to attract investments largely depends on how effectively they are structured and positioned to demonstrate their potential to potential partners. Ofori Jnr. urged SMEs to adopt business insurance, environmental sustainability, and good corporate practices as they expand. He encouraged business owners to develop proper succession plans to ensure their companies survive beyond the founders. Ofori Jnr. concluded by encouraging SMEs to invest in capacity building, sound business structures, partnerships, and sustainable practices to be better positioned to grow and contribute to Ghana’s economic development.",
  "summary": "The Government has urged Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) to adopt digital technologies and innovation to improve productivity, reduce operational waste and create more employment opportunities.",
  "key_points": [
    "Government encourages Ghana's SMEs to adopt digital technologies for growth and job creation",
    "Noah Tumfo, Chief Director, stresses SMEs' vital role in economic development and job generation"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}