Consolidated Bank Ghana Ltd (CBG), in partnership with the Women of Africa Network, has opened the 6th Women in Trade and Investment Conference 2026. This three-day event, held from July 29 to July 31 at the CBG SME Centre in Accra, aims to promote women-led businesses. It seeks to expand their access to finance, markets, and investment opportunities.
The conference operates under the theme "Financial Avenues for Women Entrepreneurs." It features an exhibition showcasing Made-in-Ghana products from women entrepreneurs. The event also includes business networking sessions, panel discussions, and financial education programs. These activities are designed to strengthen women-owned enterprises.
Day one of the conference brought together women entrepreneurs, policymakers, development partners, and business leaders. They explored practical solutions to improve access to finance and foster sustainable growth for women-led businesses. This initiative aligns with Ghana's broader economic strategy to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are crucial for job creation and economic diversification.
Dr. Naomi Wolali Kwetey, Managing Director of CBG, expressed the bank's pride in supporting the initiative. She described it as an important platform for celebrating the innovation and resilience of Ghana's SMEs. Dr. Kwetey highlighted the conference's role in showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of local businesses, especially women-owned enterprises. These businesses make significant contributions to the country's economy.
The exhibition is a major attraction, with women entrepreneurs displaying a wide range of locally manufactured products. These include processed foods, fashion and textiles, cosmetics, handicrafts, and agricultural products. Participants are expected to use the event to market their products, build strategic partnerships, attract investment, and explore new domestic and international market opportunities.
Dr. Kwetey encouraged exhibitors and participants to maximize the conference by networking and forging business relationships. These connections can support the long-term growth of their enterprises. Such platforms are vital for fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in Ghana, particularly for underrepresented groups.
Dr. Gladys Nkrumah, Director of the Women of Africa Network, thanked CBG for the partnership. She urged women entrepreneurs to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for their businesses. AfCFTA presents a significant opportunity for Ghanaian businesses to access a wider continental market, potentially boosting exports and economic growth.
Dr. Nkrumah noted the timeliness of this year's theme, given rapidly changing global and local markets. She highlighted how technology is reshaping business practices and new financial models are emerging. Despite these advancements, many women still face persistent barriers, limited access to affordability, and gaps in financial literacy. The conference aims to address these challenges directly.
The event will also be used to "map new paths, unlock capital and equip women entrepreneurs with the tools they need to grow sustainable enterprise." This focus on practical solutions and capacity building is essential for ensuring the long-term viability and expansion of women-led businesses in Ghana's competitive economic landscape.