Regional News of Thursday, 25 September 2025

Source: Michael Oberteye, Contributor

Ghanaian entrepreneur calls for stronger government support for local industries

Nana Ohene Kwaku II called on the govt during the launch of Ofie Black Bitters and Ofie Gold Bitters Nana Ohene Kwaku II called on the govt during the launch of Ofie Black Bitters and Ofie Gold Bitters

Chief Executive Officer of the Nyame Nsa Group of Companies, Nana Ohene Kwaku II, has renewed calls for greater government support for local businesses, warning that Ghana’s entrepreneurial potential continues to be constrained by a lack of meaningful assistance to the private sector.

Speaking at Amanorkrom in the Eastern Region during the launch of Ofie Black Bitters and Ofie Gold Bitters — two new herbal-based alcoholic beverages under the company’s subsidiary, Nyame Nsa Ofie Beverages — the CEO underscored the challenges indigenous businesses face in scaling up and the opportunities that could be unlocked through stronger state backing.

“I am currently managing close to 140 workers across different units and paying them monthly without any support from anywhere. If the government extends assistance, I could expand operations and employ as many as 500 workers.

The private sector has immense potential, but because of the lack of support, many people run towards government jobs. With the right backing, private businesses can be even better managed,” he said.

A Role for Public–Private Partnerships

Nana Ohene Kwaku II’s appeal comes at a time when Ghana has prioritised public–private partnerships (PPP) as a key driver of economic transformation. Under various government blueprints, including the Ghana CARES “Obaatan Pa” programme, the state has pledged to leverage partnerships with the private sector to accelerate growth, industrialisation, and job creation.

However, many local businesses argue that the impact of these initiatives has yet to be felt on the ground. Entrepreneurs like the Nyame Nsa CEO believe that access to affordable financing, tax incentives, and infrastructure support could make a significant difference in allowing private enterprises to expand, employ more people, and compete globally.

Driving Local Industry Growth

The launch highlights the growing role of local businesses in creating jobs, supporting local economies, and offering innovative products with both traditional and modern appeal. Yet, as the Nyame Nsa Group’s experience shows, the absence of consistent government support continues to hold back expansion efforts.

For Ghana’s broader economic agenda to succeed, observers argue that PPPs must move beyond policy pronouncements and translate into real support for indigenous businesses. Access to credit, reduced bureaucratic hurdles, and targeted support for small and medium enterprises could empower firms like Nyame Nsa Group to compete on both local and international markets.

For Nana Ohene Kwaku II, the vision is clear: expand production, create sustainable jobs, and showcase the strength of Ghanaian-made products on the global stage. But, as he stressed, government backing will be essential in turning this vision into reality.

Responsible Consumption Encouraged

The CEO further cautioned against the misuse of alcoholic beverages, particularly the practice of consuming bitters as aphrodisiacs. He encouraged Ghanaians to focus on healthy lifestyles, including balanced diets and regular exercise, to improve their well-being.