… discuss business advancement
By Christabel DANSO ABEAM
The American Chamber of Commerce Ghana (AmCham) and the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) have jointly hosted a jazz-themed networking event in Accra, blending informal engagement with business dialogue as companies navigate a mixed economic outlook.
The event, described by organisers as their first joint gathering of the year, brought together member firms to explore partnerships and exchange views on Ghana’s operating environment, even as live music created a more relaxed setting than traditional corporate forums.
Speaking at the event, AmCham Ghana Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Doris Kafui Afanyedey, said the chamber had recorded a strong start to the year, with 15 companies joining in the first quarter. The new members were formally inducted during the evening.
Despite the upbeat tone, discussions among executives also touched on areas of concern, including regulatory processes, taxation and broader business conditions, underscoring issues that firms continue to navigate in the operating environment.
Ms. Afanyedey said the chamber continues to engage key state institutions, including the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), in an effort to improve responsiveness and ease of doing business.
“This evening reflects our commitment to building stronger connections within the business community in a way that is both engaging and purposeful. While there is clear optimism among our members, we also recognise the importance of continued dialogue with stakeholders to address practical challenges and support a more enabling environment for businesses to grow,” she noted.
The UKGCC said its decision to anchor the event around jazz music was intended to encourage more open interaction among participants. Executive Director Adjoba Kyiamah described jazz as a ‘universal language’ that facilitates connection and conversation.
“Jazz is something that brings people together. So, we thought, why not create a space to network and do business in that atmosphere,” she shared.
However, the chamber also highlighted operational constraints affecting its members, particularly importers. These include delays in clearing goods and the risk of rising demurrage costs, issues that continue to weigh on trade efficiency and business costs.
UKGCC said it is in discussions with the GRA to address some of these bottlenecks, though timelines for resolution remain uncertain.
Beyond commercial concerns, both chambers emphasised the role of business in supporting social development. The UKGCC reiterated its support for the Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital, with plans to help secure incubators to strengthen neonatal care.
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