The CEO of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Margaret Ansei, has emphasised the pivotal role of technology in transforming Ghana’s economy, urging Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt digital tools to improve productivity and minimise operational waste.

Speaking at the Kwahu Business Forum on Saturday, April 19, 2025, Ms. Ansei noted that the success of the ambitious 24-hour economy policy depends heavily on efficiency and innovation, particularly among MSMEs, which make up over 90% of businesses and employ around 80% of the nation’s workforce.

“Implementation of a 24-hour economy with inefficiencies would be a very expensive adventure,” she warned.

She revealed that a recent GEA pilot using a Digital Enterprise Performance Management Tool showed operational losses of up to 17.9% in sales and 28% in productivity among participating enterprises.

“These losses go beyond finances—they stem from deeper inefficiencies such as performance, availability, and quality,” she said.

“Technology can directly address these gaps.”

Ms. Ansei said the GEA is actively working to ensure inclusivity and real impact.

“We are consciously embarking on inclusive service provision to give hope to everybody,” she said, highlighting the agency’s partnership with UNIDO to develop digital tools that allow MSMEs to track performance in real time and cut down waste.

She also spotlighted the U-SPARK Project, describing it as a “game-changer” that equips SMEs with the digital tools to identify inefficiencies and improve production.

According to her, the project has already led to a 36% improvement in efficiency by reducing quality losses.

In addition, she touched on broader initiatives under the GEA’s RESET AGENDA, which include tailored funding for women, youth, and persons with disabilities, digitisation support for disabled entrepreneurs, and formalisation of businesses through the Rural Enterprises Program.

Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to President John Mahama’s 24-hour economy vision, Ms. Ansei said: “GEA stands as an irreplaceable pillar in the sustainable development and promotion of MSMEs in Ghana.

"We shall continue to roll out innovative interventions to build a thriving and prosperous Ghanaian business ecosystem.”

The Kwahu Business Forum brought together stakeholders from the private sector, financial institutions, government agencies, and development partners to explore practical strategies for industrial transformation and inclusive economic growth.