Bussiness
JICA supports 8 startups with NINJA programme
The cohort in a photograph with stakeholders
Eight young Ghanaian entrepreneurs have successfully graduated after undergoing seven months of incubation under the Next Innovation With Japan NINJA Project organised by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
This was done in collaboration with the Ghana Enterprise Agency (GEA) and Accra Digital Centre (ADC) together with various key startup ecosystem players.
The Project NINJA programme is JICA’s global initiative to support entrepreneurs and create business innovation in emerging countries and support startups to turn their dreams into reality by uncovering prospective customers’ pain points and nurturing them continuous development.
The project received about 125 applications, which was whittled down to eight applicants who were taken through seven months of incubation to monitor their progress and give them the needed support through mentorship among others.
Each startup was supported with GH₵30,000 to help them achieve their dream and expand their businesses.
Speaking at the demonstration day held at the ADC on Tuesday October 25, 2022, the Chief Representative of JICA Ghana, Araki Yasoumichi commended the GDA, GEA and MDF West Africa for their immense contribution.
Mr.Yasoumichi was optimistic that the support given them would go a long way to expand their startups and solve problems in the society.
According to MDF West Africa’s Programme Manager, Julia Appiah, it was tough cutting down the number because the organisers received a lot of good business modules, but had to prune them down to eight and mentor them.
She said some were just ideas, and through the support today, it has become a reality. She encouraged the entrepreneurs to put whatever they have learnt to good use.
David Ofori of ADC said they have a mandate to be an instigator in the digital space and considering the focus of NINJA, it was a step in the right direction partnering them to nurture future entrepreneurs.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Bussiness
Global Market Volatility: Gov’t absorb GH¢2.00 per litre on diesel and GH¢0.36 per litre on petrol
Effective Thursday, April 16, 2026, which is the next pricing window, the Government will absorb GH¢2.00 per litre on diesel and GH¢ 0.36 per litre on petrol.
This intervention is intended to cushion customers and ease the cost burden on households, transport operators, and businesses.
The measure, approved by Cabinet, is in response to rising prices of petroleum products on the international market, which have significantly impacted ex-pump prices in Ghana.
This temporary intervention will remain in force for a period of one (1) month.
During this period government will continue to closely monitor developments in the global oil market and assess the need for further policy adjustments.
A statement signed by Minister of Government Communications, Felix Ofosu Kwakye noted that they remain commited to maintaining price stability, protecting livelihoods, and supporting Ghana’s economic recovery in the face of external shocks.
Ghana’s gold and minerals sector is set for a major spotlight as Meetings. Co, in partnership with key industry stakeholders, announces the Mining & Minerals Convention 2025, scheduled from August 26-27, 2025, at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, Accra.
Held under the theme “Shaping the Future of Ghana’s Gold Industry,”‘ the Convention will convene government leaders, regulators, miners, refiners, investors, sustainability partners, innovators, and responsible mining, and global competitiveness,policy experts to explore strategies that position Ghana’s gold industry for long-term growth.
The two-day convention will feature presidential and ministerial keynote addresses, industry thought leadership, technical paper presentations, policy dialogues, fireside chats, exhibitions, and high-level networking sessions.
Convention delegates can anticipate a dynamic and insightful experience, marked by thought leadership from leading policymakers and regulators, in-depth discussions on key topics such as sustainability, ESG, digital gold, and responsible sourcing, as well as valuable opportunities to forge public-private partnerships and investment deals.
Moreover, the event will offer practical action points aimed at unlocking greater economic value for Ghana.
The 2025 edition will be supported by a strong coalition of strategic partners, including the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minerals Commission, GoldBod, the Minerals Income and Investment Fund (MIIF), and the Ghana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GHEITI).
