Ghana’s Green Transition Needs In-Depth Research for Sustainable Growth – UNDP.

Accra: Ghana's transition towards greener practices necessitates a comprehensive research-based approach to ensure sustainable development, as emphasized by Dr. Abdul Razak Saeed, Head of Environment and Climate at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Dr. Razak Saeed highlighted the importance of research in identifying both potential challenges and opportunities for Ghanaian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt sustainable methods and resources in their production processes.According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Razak Saeed made these remarks during a stakeholder validation workshop focused on greening MSME production, particularly in logistics and packaging. The workshop aimed to empower local MSMEs, which are crucial to the economies of several African nations, including Ghana, by integrating environmental considerations into their business operations. This integration is seen as vital for sustainable growth and for tapping into the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).D r. Razak Saeed further emphasized that by adopting sustainable practices, Ghanaian MSMEs could enhance their economies of scale and competitiveness, thereby gaining access to broader and more premium international markets. He noted that such practices would allow these enterprises to capitalize on the benefits offered by AfCFTA, potentially contributing to significant economic growth across Africa and lifting millions out of extreme poverty by 2035.The UNDP is leveraging its technical expertise and network to support MSMEs, particularly those led by women and youth, in greening their businesses. This support is aimed at maximizing the benefits of the AfCFTA agreement. Dr. Razak Saeed also pointed out that pursuing green initiatives would enable Ghanaian MSMEs to meet the demands of a population increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their consumption choices.Moreover, Mr. Jacob Gyamfi-Aidsoo, Senior Advisor at AfCFTA, advised MSMEs intending to export to European markets to establish green cred entials. He suggested that these credentials could be achieved through sustainability reports, which are becoming increasingly important to environmentally conscious consumers in both European and global markets.Dr. Martin Akogti, Deputy Director and Researcher at the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), encouraged MSMEs to prioritize quality management and sustainable packaging. He noted that many consumers are now willing to pay higher prices for products that are produced sustainably. Dr. Akogti also expressed GEPA's intention to deepen partnerships with UNDP across various value chains to foster growth in the export sector, thereby driving economic growth and job creation.