Pyxera Global, managers of the Ghana Supply Chain Development (SCD) Programme together with the African Partner Pool (APP) on Tuesday hosted businesses operating in the oil and gas sector in the Western region.

It is to create market linkages with operators in the industry.

Mr Ken Mcghee, the Chief of party of the SCD said creating Supplier awareness and market linkages within the supply chain was critical for SME’s to maximize contract opportunities within the oil and gas sector.

The Chief of Party said the capacity of SME’s needed to be built in accelerating industrial development, adding that, Ghanaian businesses can become competitive through increased knowledge and enhanced partnership.

Mr Mcghee said the SCD and its allied partners were committed in ensuring sustainable active participation in the oil, gas, power and the mining sector.

Mr Mohammed Kapeon, a Representative of the Petroleum Commission who spoke on Local Content and Contracting Opportunities, entreated SME’s in the oil and gas sector to register with the Commission, adding that, “Your registration is a pre-requisite to effectively participate in opportunities in the sector”.

The PC representative educated them on registration processes and the need for businesses to make realistic projections, saying that, “ we bill or charge according to your projection or turn-over’s.”

Mr Sam Brandful, of Invest in Africa-APP, said the programme brings on board companies with proven records to link up with local businesses in sharing experiences, developing local enterprises and support investment in Ghana and Africa as a whole.

The APP was working to actively increase buyers, ensure access to tender, reduce cost and promote businesses among others.