Shamima Muslim
Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has called for deliberate investment in Ghana’s Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, describing it as central to deepening industrialisation, expanding local value addition, and creating sustainable jobs.
Speaking on his behalf at the 5th Edition of the National FMCG Awards, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim said the call comes at a time when Ghana’s economy is showing renewed momentum.
Citing Ghana Statistical Service data, she said the economy recorded 6.4% real GDP growth in the first quarter of 2026.
The industry sector grew by 6.9%, accounting for 32.9% of GDP and contributing 34.1% of overall economic growth in the period. Manufacturing also hit a record GH¢7.06 billion in constant price GDP in Q1 2026.
“These encouraging statistics are clear evidence that when industry grows, Ghana grows,” Ms. Muslim stated. “Strengthening the FMCG sector is not simply a business priority. It is actually a national imperative. It is central to deepening industrialization, to expanding local value addition, and creating sustainable jobs.”
Positioning For AfCFTA
She said under the African Continental Free Trade Area, (AfCFTA) Ghana must move beyond exporting raw materials and capture more value domestically.
“What Africa shouldn’t do is to wait on the sidelines and yet again be mere participants. We cannot be a country that is powering the global economy without refining in the same country,” she indicated.
Ms. Muslim added that President John Mahama is leading initiatives, including a research drive, aimed at reclaiming Africa’s health sovereignty amid a shifting global order.
Digital Transformation Urged
She said AI, automation, digital payments, e-commerce and data-driven decision making are no longer future technologies but tools defining successful businesses today.
“Consumer expectations are evolving faster than ever. Technology is transforming every stage of the value chain and competition is becoming increasingly global,” she said.
She urged FMCG businesses to embrace digital transformation and innovation, while creating opportunities for young people.
“A new growth code demands agility, continuous innovation, investment in technology, research and development, product quality, and human capital. It requires businesses to anticipate change rather than react to it,” she added.
By Prince Fiifi Yorke