Dignitaries in a group photograph at the launch
MTN Ghana has renewed its commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by headlining the 2026 edition of the SME Grow Africa (SMEGA) Awards, set to be held under the theme “Empowering SMEs to Scale Beyond Borders through Innovation, Resilience and Digital Solutions.”
Now in its 13th year, the SMEGA initiative has evolved into a major platform for recognising and promoting Ghanaian entrepreneurship, spanning 18 categories including agribusiness, manufacturing, digital technology, trade, and women-led enterprises.
Speaking at the launch, Executive Director of SME Grow Africa, Kwesi Ofori Jnr, described the awards as more than a recognition scheme, noting that they have grown into a movement that celebrates the resilience and ambition of Ghanaian entrepreneurs.
According to him, despite persistent economic challenges, many SMEs continue to demonstrate remarkable adaptability and innovation, which underscore the need for stronger platforms to amplify their impact.
“Selected businesses will not only be recognised but will also gain access to masterclasses, mentorship, partnership opportunities, and investment support, as well as pathways to expand beyond Ghana’s borders,” he said.
Senior Manager for SME Sales at MTN Ghana, Mohammed Abubakar Siddiq, said the company’s partnership with SMEGA reflects its long-term commitment to enterprise development.
“SMEGA shines the spotlight, but MTN works year-round to ensure that more Ghanaian businesses are prepared to step confidently into that spotlight,” he stated, highlighting the role of digital solutions in helping SMEs scale and remain competitive.
Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Margaret Ansei, also commended the initiative, noting that Ghanaian businesses possess the potential to compete on the global stage.
“Our businesses are not short of potential; they simply need the right platform and support system to compete internationally,” she said.
She acknowledged that SMEs, which account for more than 85 percent of businesses in Ghana, continue to face structural constraints, but stressed that these challenges should galvanise stronger collaboration among government, financial institutions, development partners, and the private sector.
By Prince Fiifi Yorke