Private sector support key to economic growth – AU Ambassador

The African Union (AU) Ambassador, Dr. Frank Ighorodje, has called for stronger support for the private sector to drive Ghana’s economic growth.

He made the remarks at the 2nd Corporate Leadership Excellence Awards 2025 held in Accra, where over 29 individuals and companies were honored for their contributions to the nation’s economic and industrial development.

The awards ceremony, organized by Imperial Communications, was held under the theme “Empowering Visionary Leadership: Driving Excellence, Innovation, and Impact.”

The event brought together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to celebrate innovation and business leadership.

Private sector empowerment

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Ighorodje commended the awardees for their resilience and contributions to Ghana’s business landscape. He stressed the crucial role of the private sector in fostering sustainable economic transformation and urged the government to implement policies that attract investment and encourage innovation.

“For Ghana to achieve economic transformation, the government must intensify its support for the private sector. We need policies that attract investment, foster innovation, and position our businesses for global competitiveness,” he said.

Dr. Ighorodje also highlighted the need for businesses to embrace digital transformation, stating that leveraging technology is essential for global competitiveness.

“We are in a digital revolution, and businesses that leverage technology will lead the future. Ghanaian enterprises must position themselves strategically to compete internationally,” he added.

Recognizing business excellence

The ceremony celebrated outstanding leaders across various sectors for their impact on industry and community development. Notable awardees included:

• Mr. Gopal Vasu, CEO of M&G Pharmaceuticals Limited – Most Outstanding in Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare Solutions
• Dr. Leslie Casley-Hayford, Director of Associates for Change – Most Outstanding in Community Development
• Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Energy and Natural Resources – Most Outstanding in Public University Leadership
• Mr. Erick Bertin Houadjeto, Executive Director of Sulu Investments Limited – Best in Manufacturing (Non-Alcoholic & Alcoholic Beverages)

Awardees received citations and plaques in recognition of their exceptional contributions to economic and social progress.

Innovation for economic growth

The awards highlighted the importance of fostering innovation and strengthening public-private collaboration to advance Ghana’s economic agenda. Imperial Communications reaffirmed its commitment to promoting leadership excellence and driving business innovation.

As Ghana seeks to accelerate economic growth, stakeholders emphasized the need for policy reforms, investment incentives, and digital transformation to support the private sector’s pivotal role in the nation’s development.

The post Private sector support key to economic growth – AU Ambassador appeared first on The Business & Financial Times.

Read Full Story