President John Dramani Mahama and Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting local manufacturing. This declaration followed their visit to Ghato Foods Ltd in Tema on October 8, 2026.
The visit to Ghato Foods Ltd, a company producing tomato paste and other food products, formed part of President Mahama's ongoing engagement with businesses. The President aimed to assess their operations, understand challenges, and recognize their contributions to Ghana’s industrial development. Expanding local manufacturing businesses is crucial for creating more employment opportunities for young Ghanaians.
This initiative fits into Ghana's broader economic strategy to reduce import dependency and foster self-sufficiency. The government has consistently emphasized industrialization as a key driver for sustainable economic growth and job creation. Prior efforts include the 'One District, One Factory' program, which seeks to establish industrial hubs across the country. The Finance Minister is also consulting with the Trade Ministry on a new economy program, indicating a concerted push for local production.
During the tour, President Mahama commended Ghato Foods Ltd management for their investment in local manufacturing. He stressed the importance of establishing and expanding production facilities to create decent jobs and strengthen Ghana’s industrial base. He also directed the Finance Minister to allocate GHS 1 billion for a Housing Fund in the 2027 Budget, another measure aimed at stimulating economic activity and job creation.
The government's focus on local manufacturing is expected to continue, with potential policy support and incentives for domestic producers. Decision-makers will likely monitor the impact of such visits and policy directives on investment in the manufacturing sector. The goal is to see tangible growth in local production capacity and a corresponding increase in employment figures. This commitment is vital for Ghana to achieve its industrialization targets and improve the livelihoods of its citizens.
The 'Nkoko Nketenkete' initiative, for example, boosted local poultry production from 4.6% to 22% in one year, demonstrating the potential impact of targeted support. Such successes provide a blueprint for expanding local manufacturing across various sectors. The government also plans to ensure Ghanaian businesses benefit from the Sentuo Airport Garden City project, further integrating local enterprises into major developments. These efforts collectively aim to build a robust and resilient Ghanaian economy.