By Leo Nelson
The Ashanti Expo 2026 has opened in Kumasi with the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, reaffirming government’s commitment to creating a thriving environment for businesses. Speaking at the official opening on Monday, April 6, the Minister emphasised that the Expo will play a critical role in boosting trade, attracting investment, and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across Ghana.
The event, themed “Unlocking Business Opportunities in the Golden Heart of Ghana,” has brought together stakeholders from key sectors, including agribusiness, manufacturing, tourism, and trade, to explore opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Addressing participants, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare described the Expo as more than just a gathering, highlighting its strategic importance in unlocking economic opportunities and strengthening Ghana’s position as an investment hub.
“The Ashanti Expo is more than just an event; it’s a critical opportunity to promote culture, commerce, and investment, it’s about creating spaces for entrepreneurs, farmers, and investors to connect and grow their businesses.”
She noted that under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, the government is focused on enhancing Ghana’s competitiveness and making it a preferred destination for both local and foreign investors.One of the key policies highlighted was the Feed the Industry Programme, which aims to link agriculture with industry by promoting value addition and expanding opportunities within both sectors.
The Minister also underscored Ghana’s strategic advantage as host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, encouraging businesses to take full advantage of the expanded market access it provides. She stressed that the country has a responsibility to lead by example in demonstrating how intra-African trade can drive economic growth.
According to her, government is working to equip local enterprises with the necessary tools to compete effectively across the continent, including access to market intelligence and trade facilitation mechanisms. Experts say the AfCFTA presents a major opportunity for Ghanaian businesses to scale beyond domestic markets and tap into a broader African consumer base.
A key highlight of the Ashanti 3rdExpo 2026 is its focus on empowering youth and women in business. The Minister pointed to initiatives such as the Women and Youth in Business Empowerment Forum and the Pitch-to-Win Enterprise Growth Challenge as essential platforms for supporting emerging entrepreneurs.
“These initiatives are designed to provide access to finance, mentorship, and market opportunities for young people and women,” she explained.
She emphasised that inclusive economic growth requires targeted support for these groups, who play a vital role in driving innovation and enterprise development in the country.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, also addressed participants, highlighting ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at boosting trade and economic activity in the region.He pointed to the Bonkra Inland Port project as a key development that will facilitate trade by improving logistics and reducing congestion at Ghana’s ports.
He also announced that work on the Suame Interchange will resume this week, noting that the project will significantly enhance automobile infrastructure in the Suame industrial enclave.
“These infrastructure projects are critical to unlocking the full potential of the Ashanti Region as a commercial hub,” he stated.
The Expo has attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including investors, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and development partners, all seeking to explore opportunities within Ghana’s growing economy. Organisers say the event will feature exhibitions, networking sessions, and panel discussions focused on key sectors driving national development.
The Minister commended the Ashanti Regional Minister and the planning committee for successfully organising the maiden edition of the Expo, expressing confidence in its long-term impact.
The Ashanti Expo 2026 reflects the government’s broader agenda to drive industrialisation through private sector development and strategic partnerships. By providing a platform for businesses to connect, innovate, and expand, the Expo is expected to contribute to job creation, increased productivity, and sustained economic growth.
As Ghana continues to position itself as a regional trade hub, initiatives like the Ashanti Expo are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of business and investment in the country.