MTN Ghana has organized an SME Business Clinic in Kumasi, benefiting 120 entrepreneurs, including members of dressmaking and tailoring associations, business groups, and sole proprietors in the Ashanti Region.
The SME Clinic forms part of MTN’s flagship SME Accelerate Programme, which seeks to strengthen the capacity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in areas such as financial inclusion, digital engagement, and business competitiveness.
Purpose of the SME Fair
As part of the wider SME Month initiative, the SME Fair showcases MTN’s digital solutions designed to help SMEs grow, including voice, data, and SMS packages, as well as business management and communication platforms.
The fair also provides SMEs with a platform to exhibit their products and services to a wider audience, fostering greater market access.
It creates opportunities for SMEs to network with other businesses, form partnerships, and exchange ideas. In addition, SME Month features workshops and capacity-building sessions to equip entrepreneurs with essential business skills.
Building SME Capacity
Senior Manager for SME Sales at MTN, Mr. Abubakari Sidick, explained that the program is called a “clinic” because many SMEs in Ghana require tailored support to address gaps in capacity building and digital adoption.
“This is the fourth SME Clinic we have organized in Kumasi. The goal is to support SMEs that are contributing significantly to Ghana’s economy. We have identified about 120 SMEs and are equipping them with knowledge to overcome challenges such as access to finance, insurance, and stock protection,” he said.
Partnership with Sanlam Allianz
Head of Business Development and Distribution (Corporate and Commercial) at Sanlam Allianz, Ernestina Nana Adwoa Oyelaran, emphasized her organization’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs through the partnership with MTN.
“SMEs are the backbone of every economy, so we see the need to invest in their growth and empower our people. Our objective is to help them live with confidence because they are investing heavily in their businesses — their money, stock, and efforts must be protected,” she said.
Impact on Entrepreneurs
Some participants described the program as an eye-opener, noting that it had changed their perception about the value of small businesses.
“We have learned that the size of a business does not determine its importance. The clinic has taught us how to keep proper records and address business challenges. It has been very impactful,” one entrepreneur said.
