News:
May 21, 2021
Minister of Trade and Industry Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen has assured Ghanaians that by the end of the second term of President Akufo-Addo, the country would witness a real industrial transformation.
Speaking at the commissioning of Nano Foods Ltd on May 20, 2021 at Nsawam Adoagyiri, Mr. Kyerematen stated that Nano Foods Ltd under the ownership of Astek Group of Companies, has introduced technological innovations in its factory and this is what transforms an economy and is a sign of good things to happen, and commended the Free Zones Authority and others for their role.
“Those districts which have not had the opportunity to benefit under the One District One Factory (1D1F) yours is on its way coming”, he said.
Again, under the EU economic management agreement the whole of the European Union (EU) market would be open to Ghana next month and goods from Ghana would be duty free, whatever Ghana can export it would be more competitive”. And noted that same apply to the United States of America market as well, “you will find Nano Foods in the US market”.
“So, how do you we explain that, in this country there would still be poverty as we make inroads into these developed economies?”, he queried.
Mr. Kyerematen further noted that, the 1D1F strategic objective is to decentralize industrial development in Ghana bringing industry to the door steps of the average Ghanaian and added that for several decades, “if you want to see a factory you have to go to Accra, 1D1F is making sure we bring factories to every district”.
And added that, 1D1F is designed to add value to Ghana’s natural resources at the base and commissioning of Nano Foods is an opportunity to provide decent job for the youth including women.
“This would provide an opportunity to reduce import of goods into this country, especially fruit juice”. He wondered how we would explain to others that a country blessed with fertile lands lacks industries to process raw materials produce from the land, and that that, 1D1F is supporting the agro-industry in the country to grow.
The Minister praised Dr. Owusu, the founder of Astek Group of Companies for drawing a succession plan, by bring his children into the company and they being at the fore front of revival of Astek, and urged entrepreneurs in Ghana to learn from Dr. Owusu by drawing succession plan and should not wait until they exit.
Kwaku Sakyi-Danso/Ghanamps.com