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Government’s NEIP Initiative transforms entrepreneurship landscape in Ghana
The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has lauded the transformative impact of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) on Ghana’s entrepreneurship landscape.
Speaking at the 3rd Applied Research Conference of Technical Universities in Ghana (ARCTUG 2024) in Sunyani, the President detailed the successes of NEIP and its contributions to reducing youth unemployment and stimulating economic growth.
Launched in 2017, NEIP has been a cornerstone initiative aimed at advancing entrepreneurship and innovation in Ghana. The programme provides critical support to start-ups through funding, training, and mentorship. President Akufo-Addo noted that NEIP has significantly impacted Ghana’s start-up ecosystem, leading to the emergence of numerous innovative businesses across various sectors.
“By offering financial support and business development services, NEIP has enabled 15,000 start-ups to scale up their operations,” President Akufo-Addo stated.
He highlighted that the programme has contributed to the creation of 103,871 jobs as at the end of 2023, fostering economic diversification and empowering the youth.
The President paid tribute to the foundational work of the late John Kumah, the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NEIP, and the former Minister for Business Development, Mohammed Awal Ibrahim, for their roles in establishing the programme. He emphasised that NEIP’s success in producing entrepreneurial talent has not only generated thousands of jobs but also positioned Ghana as a hub for innovation in West Africa.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted the various forms of support provided by NEIP, including funding, training, and mentorship. The programme’s emphasis on equipping young entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and resources has been instrumental in reducing unemployment and fostering a culture of self-reliance and creativity.
The President noted that NEIP’s success is evident in the numerous innovative businesses that have emerged from the programme. These businesses, he said, are driving sustainable economic development and improving the livelihoods of citizens. NEIP has also played a crucial role in positioning Ghana as a hub for innovation in West Africa.
In addition to NEIP, President Akufo-Addo emphasised the importance of creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurship. He noted that the government’s efforts to promote entrepreneurship and innovation extend beyond NEIP, with substantial investments in education and research. The government has disbursed over GH¢700 million in research and book allowances since 2020, underscoring its commitment to advancing education and research in Ghana.
President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the government’s focus on STEM education, which is essential for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
He detailed the various initiatives aimed at developing high-quality STEM institutions and programmes, including the construction of the Accra STEM Academy and several STEM Centres and model STEM Senior High schools.
The President concluded by urging all stakeholders to continue supporting initiatives like NEIP and to work collaboratively to advance Ghana’s development through innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Together, we can build a brighter future for our nation, characterised by innovation, inclusivity, and prosperity,” he said.
In his closing remarks, President Akufo-Addo expressed gratitude for the broad endorsement of the Ghana Automotive Development Policy by Toyota’s representative and echoed the sentiments of Bono Regional Minister, Justina Owusu Banahene, for the establishment of a Sunyani industrial outlet of Toyota.
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Health Minister leads delegation Mimi Darko’s appointment as AMA Director General
Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister for Health and Member of Parliament has led a delegation to secure the appointment of Dr Delese Mimi Darko, Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority, as the Director General of the African Medicines Agency (AMA) during the ongoing 2nd Ordinary Session of the Conference of State Parties in Kigali, Rwanda.
This prestigious appointment, achieved through a competitive process, marks a proud and historic moment for Ghana and the entire continent.
It highlights Dr. Darko’s exceptional leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to enhancing public health and regulatory systems across Africa.
The Minister expressed his deep appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for his strong support and leadership throughout this process.
Mr.Akandoh congratulated Dr. Mimi Darko and Team Ghana for their incredibly successful campaign.
The AMA was established by the African Union on November 5, 2021, with the primary objective of improving access to quality, safe, and effective medical products throughout the continent. Its creation aims to facilitate the regulation and oversight of essential medicines at a continental level while promoting collaboration among African countries and regions.
The Agency’s mission is to provide leadership in creating an enabling regulatory environment for the pharmaceutical sector in Africa, ensuring that the African population has access to essential medical products and technologies.
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Police arrest five suspects involved in robbery cases in Ashanti Region
The Police Intelligence Directorate (PID) in the Ashanti Region has informed the public about a recent breakthrough in the fight against armed robbery in the Denchemuoso District.
Following a series of robbery incidents in the area, on April 22, 2025, PID/Ashanti operatives, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended one Michael Owusu Ansah, alias Baby Last, aged 32.
The suspect had been on the police wanted list since 2016 in connection with a robbery and the murder of Police Officer G/Cpl Frank Essel of SWAT/Ashanti, which occurred at the Open Space Hotel in Denchemuoso on May 19, 2016.
During interrogation, the suspect confessed to engaging in multiple street and residential robberies in Denchemuoso, Atwima-Techiman, Asuoyeboah, and surrounding areas.
He also disclosed that his gang operated with knives, pistols, and pump-action guns.
Further investigations led to the identification and arrest of his accomplices, namely:Emmanuel Owusu, alias Cassidy, Maxwell Gyimah, alias Nana Kwame, Sudais Oxford Ntiamoah, alias The Man Sudais and Rhano Okyere, alias Demon
These individuals were arrested from their hideouts within Atwima-Techiman and Denchemuoso.
However, one suspect, remains at large and efforts are underway to apprehend him and recover the weapons used in the robberies.
All five arrested suspects were arraigned before the Atasomanso Circuit Court on May 13, 2025.
They were remanded into police custody and are scheduled to reappear on June 4, 2025.
