Businessman and industrialist Ibrahim Mahama has encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to stop waiting for perfect conditions and take the first step towards building their own businesses.
Speaking at the fifth anniversary celebration of Dzata Cement on October 6, 2026, Mr Mahama said fear of failure and uncertainty should not prevent people from pursuing their entrepreneurial ambitions.
He urged young Ghanaians and other prospective business owners to set ambitious goals, trust in their abilities and approach their ventures with courage and determination.
“Do not be afraid to start. You have to take the first step and believe that you can do it,” Ibrahim Mahama said.
Drawing from his own experience in business, he said entrepreneurship requires persistence, courage and a willingness to take calculated risks.
He encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to pay attention to opportunities around them and act on them rather than spending too much time waiting for ideal circumstances.
The anniversary celebration also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss challenges within the cement industry and related port operations, particularly concerns over dust emissions during the unloading of cement cargo.
Director of Ports at the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Tebon Zumah, said the use of certain equipment, including grabs and hoppers, contributes to dust emissions during cargo handling.
He said the authority was considering alternative systems that could help reduce the problem while maintaining efficient operations at Ghana’s ports.
“We are looking at alternative systems that can help us deal with the dust problem,” Zumah said.
According to him, the GPHA intends to encourage cement manufacturers to adopt cargo-handling systems that can prevent visible dust emissions while vessels are berthed.
He explained that the initiative forms part of broader efforts to modernise cargo-handling operations, improve efficiency and address environmental concerns associated with activities at the ports.
The issue is particularly important in the handling of bulk cement and related materials, which can produce significant dust when appropriate containment and handling systems are not in place.
Zumah said the authority would continue working with industry players to identify practical solutions that can balance efficient cargo handling with environmental considerations.
Meanwhile, Dzata Group Holdings Human Resources Director, Philip Adai Mensah, called on employees to remain committed to their responsibilities and approach their work with perseverance.
He said dedication and loyalty were important not only to the company’s growth but also to the personal development and well-being of employees.
“Your commitment to your work speaks to who you are, and the respect you earn at work also follows you home,” Mensah said.
He urged staff to remain disciplined, focused and dedicated, noting that the contribution of each employee was important to the continued growth of the company.
The fifth anniversary celebration brought together Dzata Cement officials, employees, industry stakeholders and other guests to reflect on the company’s journey and its role in Ghana’s cement industry.
