President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), Dr Joseph Obeng, has called for a comprehensive revitalisation of the Ghana Trade Fair Centre, describing it as key to restoring Ghana’s leadership in industrial exhibitions and innovation across the subregion.
Speaking at the 4th West Africa Power, Energy and Building Construction Expo at the Accra International Conference Centre, Dr. Obeng said Ghana’s trade fairs have lost the influence they once held, urging the government and event organisers to raise standards to match global benchmarks.
“Growing up, the Trade Fair Centre inspired businesses through groundbreaking innovations that shaped industries,” he recalled. “We must bring that spirit back, especially as the President redefines the national development agenda.”
He noted that the once-thriving Trade Fair Centre should be transformed into a modern exhibition hub capable of attracting international investors, manufacturers, and innovators to Ghana’s industrial space.
According to him, such a move would not only boost investor confidence but also strengthen Ghana’s position as a regional hub for trade and technology exchange.
Dr. Obeng further expressed discomfort with Ghana’s current exhibition standards, stating that events described as “the biggest in West Africa” should reflect genuine innovation, strong international participation, and tangible business outcomes.
“If we are going to do it, we must do it well,” he stressed. “When other nations organise fairs, people travel from around the world to experience new technologies and serious business engagements. Ghana must strive for that same level of excellence.”
He emphasised that exhibitions such as the West Africa Power, Energy and Building Construction Expo play a crucial role in promoting alternative energy solutions and industrial innovation, especially amid rising electricity costs.
“These exhibitions give traders and entrepreneurs the chance to explore solar, wind, and gas technologies locally, instead of travelling abroad,” he said.
“That exposure will strengthen Ghana’s emerging 24-hour economy and drive industrial growth.”
Dr. Obeng’s comments have reignited public discourse on the future of the Ghana Trade Fair Centre, which many industry players believe should be repositioned as a centre of excellence for innovation, green technology, and industrial collaboration in West Africa.
By PRINCE OPOKU DOGBEY
