UNDP urges MSMEs to adopt AI for competitive advantage under AfCFTA  

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Ghana has called on Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ensure survival and effective competition within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) market. 

The UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Niloy Banerjee, said leveraging digital tools was critical for businesses to scale and thrive in an increasingly integrated and competitive continental marketplace. 

Mr. Banerjee made the call in Accra at the 7th edition of the ‘Nimdie Series’, a UNDP Ghana flagship knowledge platform aimed at equipping local businesses.  

The event, held in Accra was attended by high-level officials from the Ministry Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, and representative from the National Youth Authority and Ghana Enterprises Agency. 

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) introduced the MSMEs Nimdie Series, an initiative designed to equip Ghanaian Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) with the knowledge and skills to build sustainable, competitive businesses. 

Derived from the Akan word Nimdie, meaning “knowledge,” the series focused on critical business areas such as branding, business planning, marketing, financial management, digital transformation, and regulatory compliance.  

The initiative aligns with UNDP’s broader commitment to supporting MSMEs as key drivers of economic growth, employment creation, and innovation in Ghana. 

The MSMEs Nimdie Series served as a platform for knowledge-sharing, skill development, and networking, helping entrepreneurs navigate challenges and leverage opportunities, including maximizing the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).  

 Mr. Banerjee underscored the indispensable role of MSMEs, which constitute over 90 per cent of businesses and provide more than 70 per cent of employment in Ghana.  

“It is through your resilience, creativity, and innovation that our economy continues to grow,” he said   

Mr. Banerjee said that in today’s competitive environment, leveraging technology and AI was no longer optional; it is essential for business survival and growth. 

He emphasised that as Ghana positions itself to harness opportunities under the AfCFTA  market of over 1.2 billion people across 54 countries; MSMEs must be prepared to use all digital tools available to stay ahead. 

The Resident Representative highlighted the need to empower women and youth-led businesses, noting they often faced unique challenges despite being drivers of innovation.  

“These businesses are often driving digital innovation, using technology and AI to create solutions that address local and global needs. Yet many still struggle to access digital tools, financing and mentorship,” he noted. 

Citing International Labour Organisation data, he indicated women-led businesses in Ghana and Africa were 20 per cent less likely to scale, often due to limited financing and digital support networks, with youth-led firms facing similar constraints in digital skills. 

 Mr. Banerjee said Ghanaian MSME can properly leverage the AfCFTA through key initiatives, including capacity-building programmes and market readiness initiatives. 

He pointed to other market readiness initiatives that the  MSMEs could leverage, which include the Digital Gateway’, a one-stop online platform developed with the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), designed to provide comprehensive information and resources to businesses nationwide. 

“Our goal is to provide MSMEs with the knowledge and skills to take full advantage of AfCFTA and unlock access to new regional markets,” he added. 

Mr. Banerjee urged participants to move beyond passive listening.  

“Today is not just about listening; it’s about engagement and action. Take advantage of the digital tools and insights offered here to enhance your product or service offerings, improve your business model, and adapt to market trends,” he said.  

He reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment, stating, “UNDP Ghana remains committed to your journey. We believe in the transformative power of innovation, the digital solutions reshaping economies, and the pivotal role MSMEs play in shaping Ghana’s future.” 

Source: GNA 

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