Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Mark Badu-Aboagye has addressed a common misconception surrounding the membership of the chamber.
In an exclusive interview on e.tv Ghana’s Fact Sheet, with Samuel Eshun, the GNCCI boss emphasized that the chamber is not exclusively reserved for big men and big companies, but rather the majority of its members are owners of Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs).
Contrary to the prevailing perception, Mr. Badu-Aboagye revealed that approximately 90% of the chamber’s members are SMEs. He stressed that the primary objective of the chamber is to foster the growth of SMEs, enabling them to transform into larger companies.
He encouraged SMEs engaged in legitimate businesses and registered with the Registrar General’s Department to join the chamber.
“Anyone doing a legal business and registered at the Registrar General’s Department can be a member of the chamber.”
He further explained that the chamber aims to ensure the credibility of its members, as it often refers them to international business owners for potential collaborations. Therefore, once an SME is registered, it will undergo a screening process and become eligible for chamber membership.
Highlighting the benefits of joining the chamber, Mr. Badu-Aboagye mentioned the regular visits conducted by the chamber to its members’ establishments. Additionally, there are frequent meetings where members can voice their challenges and communicate their requirements for support. This direct engagement with SMEs allows the chamber to understand their needs and provide assistance accordingly.
“The good thing is that there’s a regular visit from the chamber and also there’s regular meeting with our members for them to let us know the challenges they have and what kind of support they need from us. So if you’re doing a legit business and registered under the Registrar and Account General Department then you can become a member.”
