In a bold step toward economic inclusion and entrepreneurship development, MTN Ghana has partnered with Fidelity Bank and enterprise development organization Innohub to empower Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the Northern Region through a two-day intensive business training programme.
The initiative, which brought together dozens of PWD entrepreneurs from across Tamale and neighboring communities, focused on equipping participants with practical skills in financial literacy, customer service, business management, and digital innovation. It forms part of a five-year MTN–Innohub partnership aimed at supporting 100 entrepreneurs annually, with 50 slots reserved specifically for PWD-led enterprises.
Speaking at the training, Adwoa Ackonor, MTN Ghana’s Manager for Enterprise Business, emphasized that the programme aligns with MTN’s Ambition 2025 strategy, which seeks to foster digital inclusion, empower Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and enable communities to thrive. “MTN Ghana is committed to creating a more inclusive digital and business ecosystem. Supporting this training aligns with our Ambition 2025 strategy, which emphasizes enabling communities, driving digital inclusion, and empowering SMEs. By equipping Persons with Disabilities with entrepreneurial and digital skills, we aim to unlock opportunities that will help them grow their businesses, improve their livelihoods, and fully participate in the economy,” Ackonor said.
She added that MTN is exploring additional support mechanisms beyond the training sessions, including post-programme mentorship, continuous capacity building, and stronger linkages to financial institutions and development partners to help participants access funding and market opportunities.
Unlocking Entrepreneurial Talent Among PWDs
King David Amo, Corporate Communications and Marketing Lead at Innohub, explained that the programme is a deliberate effort to spotlight the economic potential of PWDs in Ghana. “This programme focuses on unlocking the entrepreneurial talent that lies within PWDs, particularly in the Northern Region. PWDs represent a large pool of entrepreneurial activity and economic value that has been left dormant for far too long,” Amo said.
He noted that while many PWDs already operate small businesses, access to funding and scaling opportunities remain major barriers. “Our goal is to help these entrepreneurs put their businesses in the right shape to take advantage of funding and market opportunities from Fidelity Bank, MTN, and other partners. This initiative is a pilot for the Northern Region, but we are optimistic about scaling it to other regions,” he added.
Promoting Inclusive Growth and Market Access
Amo revealed that future initiatives will focus on national visibility for PWD-led enterprises. “We are exploring the idea of hosting a nationwide market access programme, where PWD entrepreneurs from across Ghana can come together under one platform to showcase their products and services. This targeted approach ensures their businesses are visible, bankable, and scalable,” he said.
To ensure inclusivity, the training was designed with interpreters and tailored resources, making learning accessible for all participants regardless of disability. Amo stressed that intentional efforts like this are critical to leveling the playing field for marginalized entrepreneurs.
Call for Broader Private Sector Involvement
Amo also called on corporate Ghana to invest in PWD-led businesses, citing the untapped potential they hold. “PWDs are running innovative businesses, and with the right resources, there is no reason they cannot scale. We need more corporate bodies to follow the example of MTN, Fidelity, and GIZ in empowering these entrepreneurs to thrive,” he urged.
About Innohub
Innohub is a leading enterprise support organization dedicated to helping Small and Growing Businesses (SGBs) achieve sustainability, scalability, and investment readiness. It works to bridge the funding gap between early-stage and growth-stage businesses by connecting them with capital, partnerships, and tailored business development support.
The two-day business empowerment programme signals a transformative shift in how private sector players in Ghana are supporting PWD-led enterprises. By combining training, mentorship, and market access opportunities, MTN Ghana, Fidelity Bank, and Innohub are championing an inclusive economic agenda that empowers every Ghanaian to contribute to the nation’s growth.
