Fifth edition of Chamber Bazaar opens in Takoradi

By Juliet Aguiar DUGBARTEY, Takoradi

The fifth edition of the Western Regional Chamber Bazaar has opened in Takoradi, bringing together small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to showcase their products and build capacity for global competitiveness.

On the theme, “Empowering and Preparing SMEs for Global Markets,” the 10-day event highlights a wide array of made-in-Ghana products, including African wear, fabrics, beads, wigs, cosmetics, shoes, children’s wear and beverages. Service providers such as chiropractors are also participating, reflecting the diversity of local enterprise.

A total of 61 exhibitors from Accra, Kumasi, Wa, and across the Western Region are taking part in the bazaar, organized by the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI).

At the opening ceremony in Takoradi, the Western Regional Chairman of GNCCI, Lord Kwame Segbeawu, explained that the bazaar had over the past five years, evolved into a vital platform for business growth through exposure, networking and capacity building.

He noted that the momentum built over the years had prepared participating enterprises to take advantage of opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and other international markets through collaboration and resilience.

Mr. Segbeawu expressed optimism that with the right structures and infrastructure, the Western Region could emerge as a hub for export-driven and competitive businesses, enabling SMEs to reach their full potential.

Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, commended the exhibitors for creating a vibrant market place driven by innovation and entrepreneurship, which is crucial to the region’s economic growth.

He emphasized that increasing competition in the business environment requires enterprises to reassess their strategies, adapt to changing market conditions and embrace innovation to remain relevant.

“Flexibility and forward-thinking are essential for survival and sustained growth,” he stated.

Mr. Nelson further urged businesses to prioritize value addition through processing, packaging and branding, while ensuring their products meet international standards.

“This calls for a shift in mindset, a willingness to innovate and the ability to align products with the expectations of diverse global markets,” he added.

He encouraged SMEs to take advantage of support systems provided by state institutions such as the Ghana Enterprise Agency, the Association of Ghana Industries, the Food and Drugs Authority as well as the Ghana Standards Authority.

According to him, the Investment and Business Centre of the Regional Coordinating Council has also been strengthened to facilitate business growth in the region.

Samuel Kofi Ganusah, a representative from the Office of the Registrar of Companies, underscored the importance of business registration, noting that formalization enables enterprises to benefit from government policies and programmes targeted at the SME sector.

As part of the event, distinguished individuals and institutions, including Koffman Investment Nhyirakese Wellness Centre, and the Member of Parliament for Takoradi, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, were honoured with citations for their contributions to sustaining the annual bazaar.

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