Telecel Ghana has taken its 8th Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) campaign to Takoradi, bringing together entrepreneurs, business leaders and industry experts for a day of practical lessons on building sustainable and digitally driven businesses.

The Telecel Business Runway, held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Western Serene Atlantic Hotel in Takoradi, was held under the theme “Connect to Growth, Unlock More.”

The event, which was hosted by media personality PM, featured presentations, panel discussions and exhibitions designed to equip entrepreneurs with practical knowledge to strengthen their businesses and unlock new opportunities.

Among the speakers were Telecel Ghana Chief Executive Officer, Patricia Obo-Nai; Director of Telecel Business Enterprise, Nii Lartey; and Head of SMEs at Telecel, Alfred Neizer.

GRA cautions SMEs on proper record keeping

A representative of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr Eric, urged entrepreneurs to take proper bookkeeping and financial record management seriously.

He explained that businesses must maintain accurate records of their income, expenses and other financial transactions because the GRA could request such records during its engagements with businesses.

He also highlighted differences in tax obligations depending on the location and circumstances of a business, noting that entrepreneurs should understand their tax responsibilities rather than making business decisions solely to take advantage of perceived lower tax obligations in particular locations.

Mr Eric cautioned entrepreneurs against opening multiple branches simply to pursue lower taxes.

He further advised business owners to separate personal finances from business funds, stressing that money generated by a business should not automatically be treated as a personal or family emergency fund.

SMEs urged to work with supportive financial institutions

Dr Clement Ansah of Consolidated Bank Ghana encouraged SMEs to identify financial institutions that understand their challenges and are prepared to support their growth.

He said entrepreneurs need practical financial guidance and the right banking partnerships to expand their operations without putting their businesses under unnecessary financial pressure.

Hospitality entrepreneur highlights challenges

Mrs Rebecca Oduro of Akromah Plaza shared some of the challenges confronting businesses in the hospitality sector.

She spoke about losses suffered by hotels and other hospitality establishments when guests leave with items such as towels, cups and other property belonging to the business.

According to her, such incidents create additional costs for businesses, which must spend money replacing stolen items.

Businesses encouraged to expand when opportunities arise

Mr Payin Osei Barnieh of Chemsolv Limited also urged entrepreneurs to pay attention to safety, sustainable growth and the need to have the courage to expand when the right opportunities emerge.

He encouraged SMEs to position themselves to take advantage of opportunities rather than remaining stagnant when their businesses have the capacity to grow.

SMEs urged to go digital

Closing the session on a strong note, Madam Essilfua challenged entrepreneurs to embrace digital platforms as an important part of modern business development.

She urged SMEs to create content, build online platforms, showcase their products and educate potential customers about the processes and benefits associated with their products and services.

She noted that a strong digital presence can help businesses reach wider markets and create new opportunities for growth.

Exhibition showcases local businesses

The Telecel Business Runway also provided entrepreneurs with an opportunity to exhibit their products, services and creative works.

The exhibition featured a variety of products, including mobile phones, beads, drinks, dresses, beauty products, shoes and other locally produced items.

The exhibition allowed participating businesses to interact directly with potential customers while showcasing their brands and products.

The Takoradi edition of the Telecel Business Runway therefore provided entrepreneurs with more than networking opportunities, as speakers and panellists shared practical experiences and lessons on financial management, taxation, customer relations, safety, expansion and digital marketing.

Under the message “Connect, Grow and Unlock More,” Telecel Ghana continues to position its SME engagement as a platform for businesses to gain knowledge, build connections and explore opportunities for sustainable growth.