MTN Ghana's Digital Training: Boosting SME productivity

In today's evolving business landscape, adapting, innovating, and staying competitive is crucial; it is in this regard that MTN Ghana has scaled up efforts to support local Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the country.

In July 2023, the company launched the SME Month initiative to provide SMEs with a platform to showcase their products and services, gain visibility in the market, offer networking opportunities, and provide technical assistance and capacity-building programs through mentorship, workshops, and training.

As part of this SME Month celebration, MTN Ghana has taken another judicious step by partnering with SMEGA to organize SME training for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in Accra.

This initiative has highlighted the invaluable role of SMEs in boosting local communities, encouraging digital transformation for SME growth and efficiency, and fostering collaboration and partnerships among SMEs.

Through training and development, which also focuses on group discussions, MTN offers SMEs guidance on using technology to enhance productivity, believing that doing business smarter, faster, and better is essential to thrive in this dynamic environment.

The initiative also aims to enhance the digital capabilities of selected SMEs, helping them thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Speaking at the event, Mohammed Abubakari-Sidick, Senior Manager of Business Sales at MTN Ghana, highlighted the persistent challenges faced by SMEs in Ghana, particularly in accessing funding and adopting digital solutions.

"SMEs in Ghana often struggle with access to funding and the adoption of digital solutions," he noted. "We have also identified a gap in knowledge regarding effective digital customer outreach."

To address these issues, MTN Ghana decided to organize the SMEGA SME Training program as part of SME Month. This initiative is designed to equip SMEs with essential digital skills and knowledge, enabling them to excel in their respective industries. Participants are being trained on various digital tools and strategies to enhance their online presence and customer engagement.

In addition to digital skills training, the program includes sessions on how to access loans to support business growth. Abubakari-Sidick emphasized the importance of leveraging technology and continuous learning for SMEs. "We encourage SMEs to embrace technology and keep updating their skills to stay competitive in today's market," he advised.

The SMEGA SME Training program is part of MTN Ghana's broader commitment to empowering local businesses and fostering economic growth. By providing SMEs with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed, MTN Ghana hopes to contribute to the sustainable development of the country's economy.

As the training continues, participants are expected to gain valuable insights and practical skills that will help them overcome current challenges and seize new opportunities in the digital era.

Kwesi Ofori Jnr, Executive Director of SMEGA, emphasized the importance of the modules covered in the recent training program for SMEs.

He highlighted that access to financing and digital tools is crucial for the expansion and growth of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). Ofori Jnr underscored the need for proper bookkeeping and financial records, which are essential for attracting investment and fostering business growth.

He stressed that maintaining accurate and transparent financial records can significantly enhance an SME's credibility and appeal to potential investors.

However, Ofori Jnr advised SMEs to take advantage of capacity-building training programs. He pointed out that such training not only helps businesses stay updated with the latest innovations but also equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to elevate their operations to higher standards.

In all, Ofori Jnr's insights highlight the critical areas that SMEs should focus on to achieve sustainable growth and competitiveness in the market.

Bernard Kobina Acquah, the Deputy CEO and Head of Sales & Marketing at Mr. Kitchen Ltd lauded the training initiative, noting that it has provided valuable insights into business growth on a global scale.

Acquah highlighted that SMEs often struggle with funding, market access, training, and tax exemptions and how to use digital tools to expand their businesses.

He is optimistic that the training will go a long way to help SMEs understand how to tackle these challenges and run their businesses effectively to compete in the global market.