Dignitaries at the event
The Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), on November 28, 2024, hosted the Women Icon Regional Exhibition (WIRE) in Accra to showcase local production as a way of enhancing exports while spotlighting women-owned businesses and promoting the patronage of Ghanaian-made goods.
The event, which served as a platform to empower female entrepreneurs, highlighted contributions of women to economic growth and fostered opportunities for their products to reach international markets.
The programme also celebrated the contributions of Matilda Amissah, founder of Matamiss Enterprise, who received high praise from colleagues and industry stakeholders.
GEPA’s CEO, Dr. Afua Asabea Asare, in a speech read on her behalf by her Director of Finance, Bernice Armah Ampofo, congratulated Ms. Amissah on her remarkable contributions to the arts and crafts sector.
She described Ms. Amissah as a “trailblazer” and lauded her for her unmatched endeavors in the industry as well as her passion and dedication to empowering women.
“You are not just an icon for women, but a beacon of hope for all entrepreneurs seeking to make their mark in the world,” she said.
The Minister of Trade and Industry, Kobina Tahir Hammond, in a speech read on his behalf, encouraged the exhibitors to draw inspiration from the success story Ms. Amissah and strive for excellence, even in the face of adversity.
Ms. Amissah recounted her journey from a young girl in Akropong to becoming one of the leading exporters of woven potted arts in West Africa. She expressed her gratitude for the recognition, thanking GEPA executives and everyone who supported her along the way.
Speaking in Twi, she remarked, “All the products being exhibited by the ladies here today are fit for export. I encourage the women present to push their goods onto the international market.”
By Vera Owusu Sarpong & Ransford Wletsu