Accra: The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) has launched the 14th edition of its prestigious Industry and Quality Awards in Accra, emphasizing the need for industries to adopt high-quality standards to remain competitive in the international market.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event, themed 'Accessing New Markets through Improved Quality Standards to Drive Business Growth and Job Creation,' brought together key industry players, policymakers, and development partners. The focus was to highlight the essential role of quality in the transformation of Ghana's industrial sector. Dr. Nora Bannerman-Abbott, Chairperson of the Awards Planning Committee, noted that the awards have long served as a platform to celebrate excellence and enhance competitiveness within the industry.
Dr. Bannerman-Abbott pointed out that the theme for this year's awards aligns with the government's 24-hour economy policy aimed at transitioning Ghana towards an export-driven economy. This initiative seeks to improve the quality of goods and services for regional and international markets by expanding access to transactional finance through institutions like Ghana Exim and the Development Bank Ghana.
She emphasized that for Ghanaian businesses to thrive in today's interconnected markets, adopting a culture of quality in production processes is crucial. "These have real implications for the survival of our businesses, including the creation of meaningful jobs, and for Ghana's place in the global trade ecosystem," she added. Dr. Abbott also stressed the importance of exploring new markets amid increasing tariff barriers to trade and expressed gratitude to sponsors who have supported the awards event consistently.
In a speech delivered on behalf of the Minister of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry by Madam Cynthia Dzokoto, Director for SMEs at the Ministry, the Minister highlighted how the focus on quality and standards aligns with the government's broader goal of transforming Ghana's production and trade landscape. This is to be achieved through initiatives like the 24-hour economy and a focus on export-driven growth.
The Minister noted that the 24-hour economy is designed to foster inclusive growth by enhancing export competitiveness and value-added production, moving away from a reliance on raw commodities. "These awards reflect not just recognition but a powerful call to action for Ghanaian enterprises to raise their performance to meet global standards," she added. The Minister also emphasized the significance of quality standards as essential for accessing new markets, especially under the African Continental Free Trade Area, where Ghanaian products must not only exist but excel.
Dr. Prince Kofi Kludjeson, past AGI President, speaking on behalf of AGI President Dr. Humphrey Ayim-Darke, praised AGI's commitment to recognizing industrial excellence. He urged Ghanaian businesses to prioritize quality assurance, innovation, and adherence to international standards to succeed globally. He remarked that achieving quality standards would not only enhance Ghana's trade balance but also advance global economic cooperation.
He encouraged industrialists to focus on standards, quality assurance, trust-building, security, and sustainability, as these are vital in the competitive market landscape. Special recognition was given to 11 companies that have consistently supported the awards event. The awards categories encompass major awards, sector awards, an inclusive business category, regional awards, and several honorary awards.
