AGE and VRCC Host 2nd Women Entrepreneurship Summit in Ho

The summit was held under the theme “Empowering Volta Women Entrepreneurs for Global Partnership and a Thriving 24-Hour Economy.”

The summit is part of the ongoing Volta Trade and Investment Fair

The event brought together women from across the region to exhibit a variety of locally made products, including pomade, cookies, and kente cloth. Attendees were also treated to cultural performances and music from Venunye. The summit was moderated by Ms. Joyce Dzidzor.

Keynote Address

The special guest and keynote speaker, Hon. Benita Sena Okity-Duah, National Coordinator of the Free SHS Secretariat, former MP, and former Deputy Minister for Gender, emphasized the crucial role women play in sustaining Ghana’s economy.
She highlighted the challenges women entrepreneurs face and noted that the summit aims to provide solutions that will help their businesses grow. Hon. Okity-Duah also mentioned various government initiatives that support women, including soft loans, vocational and IT training, and provisions for registering even the smallest businesses.

Solidarity Messages

Solidarity messages were delivered by representatives from the Department of Gender and Children, Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Volta Queen Mothers, and other institutions.

In her message, Mama Bobi III, Queen Mother of Bake, Ho-Bankoe, encouraged participants to build connections with accomplished women entrepreneurs. She advised them to seek mentorship rather than harbour jealousy, stressing that networking is vital for business growth.
Mama Bobi III urged the women to keep proper records of all transactions, register their businesses, and certify their products. As a judge, she emphasized that documentation is critical when resolving disputes in court.

Representatives of the Ghana Enterprises Agency also reminded participants of the importance of business registration and product certification, including registration with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA).

Remarks from Mama Blemeali Afeanyetornye III

Speaking to the media, Mama Blemeali Afeanyetornye III, Queen Mother of Afife in Ketu North, explained that the Women Entrepreneurship Summit was integrated into the regional trade fair to ensure proper representation of women entrepreneurs.
She noted that agencies such as GIPA, GEA, and GIPC, along with seasoned entrepreneurs, were brought on board to help participants share challenges and learn strategies for expanding locally and internationally.

According to her, this year marks the second edition of the summit, following the success of the maiden event. She acknowledged the impressive agricultural produce, kente, and other products showcased, adding that with improved packaging, these goods could reach international markets.

Mama Blemeali III also appealed for more sponsorship to sustain the summit, describing funding as their biggest challenge. She praised the support of past and present regional ministers, and commended Ghana Commercial Bank (GCB) for sponsoring the program. She called on other banks, mentors both male and female and the media to support future editions.

Zilideon’s Support

Following Mama Blemeali’s appeal, Zilideon, Ho’s local business directory, pledged to support Volta women entrepreneurs by offering affordable advertising packages to help boost their businesses.

Entrepreneurial Excellence Recognized

Two outstanding Volta women entrepreneurs were honoured with the Mawuena Adzo Dumor Entrepreneur Award for their contribution to Ghana’s economy. Their inspiring journeys were shown in a short video.

Mama Nyonyo II of Akoefe, Afetorfia, founder and CEO of Akosombo Catering (13 years in operation), and Madam Elizabeth Aku, founder of Kawa Moka Coffee Roasters of Leklebi (10 years in operation), both received citations.

The award body also recognized the Volta Regional Minister for his dedication and support toward women’s development in the region.