GFZA at 30: Trade Minister Charts New Path Toward Special Economic Zones

At a colourful ceremony in Accra, the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, who also chairs the GFZA Board, hailed the Authority’s three-decade journey as a symbol of Ghana’s economic progress.

She noted that since the enactment of the Free Zones Act in 1995, the programme has created thousands of jobs, attracted foreign direct investment, boosted non-traditional exports, and facilitated technology transfer.

“As government advances the Reset Agenda, the GFZA’s role has never been more important. We are transitioning from Export Processing Zones to Special Economic Zones—modern, inclusive, and globally competitive hubs,” she said.

In her remarks, the GFZA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mary Awusi, outlined the Authority’s impact, highlighting the licensing of 339 enterprises, growth in non-traditional exports from US$145.4 million in 1997 to US$2.25 billion in 2024, and direct employment rising from 3,483 to over 40,000.

She also pointed to community-focused projects in education, health, and infrastructure undertaken by Free Zone companies.

Despite challenges such as funding constraints and raw material shortages, Dr. Awusi pledged to strengthen investor services, accelerate infrastructure development, and drive digital transformation. “As the first female CEO, I am committed to positioning GFZA as one of Africa’s leading investment promotion agencies,” she affirmed.

The year-long celebrations, themed “Three Decades of Impact: Empowering Businesses, Transforming Trade in Ghana,” will feature business forums, student seminars, exhibitions, floats, health walks, awards, and CSR projects.

Sponsors including Olam Ghana Ltd, Prudential Bank Ltd, Barry Callebaut, Bel Aqua, and Geodrill have pledged their support.

Hon. Ofosu-Adjare concluded by assuring stakeholders that the next three decades will see Ghana consolidate its role as a leading investment destination and industrial hub in Africa.