In a significant move to strengthen Ghana’s small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector, MTN Ghana has deepened its strategic partnership with SMEGA Africa to deliver targeted training, digital tools, and financial access solutions aimed at accelerating business growth across the country.
The collaboration forms a key component of MTN Ghana’s expanded SME Accelerate Programme, which has already impacted over 900 businesses through capacity-building sessions, mentorship, and technology-driven interventions. The initiative, which began as a month-long campaign in 2024, has since evolved into a year-round programme in response to growing demand from SMEs seeking sustained support.
Speaking during an SME Business Clinic in Kumasi, Senior Manager for SME Sales at MTN Ghana, Abubakri Sadick Mohammed, underscored the importance of the partnership in addressing the persistent challenges confronting SMEs in Ghana.
He identified low digital adoption, limited market visibility, and restricted access to finance as key barriers inhibiting the growth and competitiveness of local businesses. According to him, the collaboration with SMEGA Africa is designed not only to equip entrepreneurs with practical skills but also to ensure long-term impact through continuous monitoring and support.
“SMEs are the backbone of our economy, but many struggle to scale due to structural and technological constraints. Through this partnership, we are empowering them with the tools and knowledge needed to compete effectively in today’s digital economy,” he stated.
As part of the initiative, MTN Ghana is providing SMEs with digital solutions that enable them to establish and enhance their online presence, including platforms for website creation and product showcasing. These tools are intended to help businesses reach wider markets, both locally and internationally, thereby increasing revenue potential and brand visibility.
In addition, the programme leverages mobile money and fintech innovations to bridge the financing gap faced by many SMEs. By building digital transaction histories, participating businesses are better positioned to access credit and other financial services, enhancing their capacity for expansion.
A distinguishing feature of the partnership is the post-training engagement led by SMEGA Africa, which tracks the progress of participating businesses and ensures that acquired knowledge is effectively implemented. This results-oriented approach allows for measurable improvements in business performance over time.
MTN Ghana’s key account managers also provide ongoing mentorship and advisory services, offering tailored guidance to SMEs as they navigate operational and strategic challenges.
Further strengthening the programme is the Mini MBA initiative, delivered in collaboration with the Nova School of Business. The 13-week course is designed to equip selected entrepreneurs with advanced managerial and leadership skills. Following a successful pilot phase, MTN Ghana plans to expand participation from about 50 beneficiaries last year to 150 in 2026.
Mr Mohammed emphasised the need for SMEs to improve their internal systems, particularly in areas such as record-keeping and financial management, noting that such practices are essential for accessing funding and sustaining growth.
He also highlighted the immense potential of Ghanaian-made products, pointing out that many high-quality local goods remain underrepresented on global markets due to limited digital exposure.
“Ghanaian products are competitive and of high quality, but visibility remains a challenge. With the right digital strategies, SMEs can unlock new opportunities and scale beyond borders,” he added.
Beneficiaries of the programme have lauded the initiative, citing improvements in packaging, branding, and overall business operations. Many expressed confidence that the training and support received would enable them to expand their enterprises and contribute meaningfully to job creation.
The partnership between MTN Ghana and SMEGA Africa represents a forward-looking approach to SME development, reinforcing the critical role of digital transformation, skills development, and strategic collaboration in driving inclusive economic growth in Ghana.
