Kokui Selormey (L), Victoria Lebene (2nd L), Christiana Dankwah (2nd R) and Marian Amartey (R)
The Head of Women Banking at Stanbic Bank Ghana, Marian Amartey, has identified time constraints, weak operational structures, and limited market access as the three biggest challenges confronting women-owned businesses.
Speaking at the MTN SME Accelerate Women in Business Webinar, themed “Breaking Barriers to Growth for Women in Business,” she explained that many women entrepreneurs struggle to balance business demands with family and social responsibilities, making effective time management critical for growth.
She noted that although many women venture into business based on skills or opportunity, they often overlook the need for strong financial systems and operational structures required for long-term sustainability.
On market access, Ms. Amartey stressed that while many women produce quality goods and services, they frequently lack the visibility and networks needed to penetrate larger and more lucrative markets.
She emphasised that in today’s business environment, maintaining a strong digital footprint is essential. “Sometimes, even to validate what you are doing, banks go to your social media platforms. If you don’t put yourself out there, you give us limited information to work with,” she said.
She cautioned that social media activity must go beyond mere posting, urging entrepreneurs to use digital tools strategically to build credibility and enhance market visibility.
Also speaking at the webinar, Founder and CEO of Foodbank Catering Services and KULA Bistro, Christiana Dankwah, stated that financial stability plays a crucial role in shaping business direction, alongside passion.
She stressed that entrepreneurship requires resilience, continuous effort, and a willingness to push beyond setbacks.
She further highlighted the importance of storytelling in business, noting that social media should reflect both visible success and behind-the-scenes struggles.
“Sometimes, what you see on social media is not the full picture. Behind every product is hard work, improvisation, and persistence,” she said, stressing the importance of transparency in brand communication.
Chief Executive Officer of the Skin Pop Shop and Vicky’s Recipe, Victoria Lebene Osafowaa-Nkansah, also underscored the importance of personal branding, consistency, and mindset discipline in building a successful business identity.
She cautioned entrepreneurs against becoming overly comfortable with success, noting that it can limit growth.
“Stay humble… don’t be too comfortable, because when you are comfortable you refuse to listen, you refuse to learn, you refuse to grow,” she advised.
She added that resilience, humility, and openness to feedback are key qualities that distinguish successful entrepreneurs from those who struggle to grow.
By Prince Fiifi Yorke