FirstBank Ghana has officially launched a series of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (SME) clinics across the country, aiming to equip business owners with the skills and knowledge required to run their operations more effectively.

The initiative kicked off last week in Kasoa, where approximately 50 SME owners participated in a day-long advisory session.

The SME clinics are designed to enhance the capacities of business owners in critical areas such as bookkeeping, corporate governance, electronic banking, and SME business growth. They also focus on introducing new trends that can improve income and revenues for these businesses. The advisory sessions are part of FirstBank Ghana’s broader strategy to support the SME sector, which is recognised as a significant driver of economic growth in the country.

Speaking at the Kasoa event on August 29, 2024, the Head of SME Banking at FirstBank Ghana, Eric Fia underscored the bank's unwavering commitment to the growth and sustainability of SME businesses.

He stated, "At FirstBank, we prioritise our customers. These clinics are a testament to our commitment to ensuring that our SME customers receive the best guidance and stay informed about trends and innovations to improve their businesses. We understand the challenges faced by SME owners in today’s dynamic market environment. Through these clinics, we aim to provide tailored advice and practical tools that will help them navigate these challenges and emerge stronger."

Allen Quaye, the Head of Retail Banking at FirstBank Ghana, also addressing the session, highlighted the importance of the SME sector to the Ghanaian economy.

"SMEs are the backbone of our economy. They contribute significantly to job creation and economic development. FirstBank Ghana is dedicated to empowering these businesses by providing them with the necessary skills and tools for sustainable growth and profitability," he said.

Mr. Quaye further stated that the SME clinics are part of FirstBank’s larger strategy to drive financial inclusion and support the local economy.

"Our mission is to ensure that SMEs across Ghana have access to the resources they need to thrive. We are not just a bank; we are a partner in their success."

Participants at the Kasoa workshop expressed their appreciation for the initiative, praising the quality of the content delivered and the practical insights gained. Many of the attendees highlighted the value of the sessions on taxation, electronic banking, corporate governance, and strategies for revenue growth.

"The knowledge we gained today is invaluable. It will definitely help me manage my business better and make more informed decisions," said one of the participants.

The success of the Kasoa event has set the stage for upcoming sessions in other communities within the footprint of FirstBank. FirstBank Ghana remains committed to expanding its support to SMEs across the country, ensuring that more business owners have the opportunity to benefit from these essential advisory services.

FirstBank Ghana is part of the First Bank Group of Nigeria Limited, which is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year. The group operates across several countries, including the UK, DRC, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Senegal.