Industrialists’ long-cherished dream of being recognized for their contribution to national economic development will find fulfillment in November, when 26 companies would be awarded for their achievements at the inaugural Ghana Industrial Awards ceremony. Championed by the leading voice of the private sector, the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), the Awards is national in scope, spanning all sectors of the economy, AGI President Nana Owusu-Afari has said. Industrialists have, over the years, argued that while the services and agricultural sectors have instituted awards recognising enterprising and successful companies and individuals of their respective sectors, the often beleaguered industrial sector, comprising manufacturing and construction, have failed to do so. “Many outstanding industries we see in Ghana today have had checkered histories. Some have had to cross many milestones, as well as survive turbulent times to get to where they are today,” Nana Owusu-Afar said. Data from AGI shows over 70 otherwise vibrant companies, under their membership, have gone belly-up in the past two decades. “We owe it to industry not to turn a blind eye to the many achievements of businesses that have distinguished themselves, while motivating other SMEs to climb up the ladder of excellence,” Na Owusu-Afar said. He disclosed that the Awards will be an annual affair, climaxing AGI’s Annual Industrial Week celebrations in November every year. An independent body, without any AGI representation, will be responsible for the review and evaluation of nominations, based on a set criteria including, growth, financials, and CSR activities among others. “We start off with the initial 26 awards, covering six key award categories, which will be expanded in subsequent years to capture every aspect of the national economy for economic operators, both in the public and private sectors, that have demonstrated excellence and innovativeness,” Nana-Afari said. The current six key award categories include; Overall Best Industrial Company of the Year, Best Corporate Social Responsibility Company, Environmental Project Company, and the Young Enterprise Award, which specifically rewards innovation and entrepreneurship. Others are the Fastest Growing Company of the Year, and Best Practices in Sustainable Manufacturing Company Award. In addition to the six, 20 AGI sectors are also earmarked for awards. They include Agri-Business, Automotive and Transport, Chemicals, Electricals and Electronics, Energy, Food and Beverages, Financial Services, and Garments, Textiles and Leather, as well as Metals, Building and Construction. Others are Oil and Gas Services, Pharmaceuticals, Printing, Stationery and Packaging, Rubber and Plastics, Toiletries and Cosmetics, Wood Processing, and Business Promotion and Consultancy Company, as well as Timer Miller of the Year and the Advertising Company of the Year.