Ahead of the upcoming presidential election of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), leading contender and Chief Executive Officer of the Coconut Grove Regency Hotel, Mr. Ralph Ayitey, has presented a detailed and ambitious plan to transform the association into a more vibrant and forward-looking institution.
Mr. Ayitey, who many industry observers say has emerged as one of the strongest candidates in the race, wants to reposition AGI as a “dynamic business organization” that supports innovation, encourages collaboration, and drives economic progress across Ghana’s industrial sector.
Speaking in an interview, he said his mission is straightforward: to empower Ghanaian businesses to grow, compete and succeed in today’s fast-changing environment.
“My vision is clear,” he stated. “We must reposition AGI as a dynamic force that actively empowers our businesses. We need to foster innovation, strengthen collaboration across all sectors, and ultimately deliver the economic prosperity essential for the growth and development of industry in Ghana.”
According to him, AGI must evolve into a more effective institution capable of helping local industries deal with long-standing challenges. If elected, he plans to focus on several key areas that he believes will help unlock the full potential of Ghana’s industrial base.
One of his main agenda points is driving innovation. He aims to introduce new programmes, industry partnerships and capacity-building initiatives that will allow member companies to adopt modern technologies and best practices. He said these steps will boost productivity, improve product quality and make Ghanaian businesses more competitive globally.
Mr. Ayitey also promises to strengthen networking and collaboration among businesses. His proposal includes creating stronger platforms where companies can share ideas, form partnerships, and explore market opportunities together. According to him, this will help break down barriers that limit industrial growth and encourage a more supportive business community.
He further highlighted the need for AGI to play a more influential role as a lobby group. He said the association must speak with one voice on matters that affect industry and engage more effectively with government, regulators and international organizations. He believes this will help secure policies that support industrial growth, attract investment, and improve the ease of doing business.
Another priority area for Mr. Ayitey is advocating for a conducive policy environment. He plans to work closely with policymakers to address issues such as high production costs, regulatory bottlenecks, access to finance and infrastructure gaps. He said a stable and business-friendly environment is necessary for industries to flourish and create jobs.
Industry experts say Mr. Ayitey’s message of transforming AGI into a more “dynamic” and proactive institution is gaining support among members who feel the association needs fresh ideas and stronger leadership, especially at a time when Ghana is facing economic difficulties. His background as the head of one of Ghana’s well-known hospitality and business centres is also seen as an advantage, giving him exposure to a wide range of industries and the daily realities entrepreneurs face.
The AGI presidential election, scheduled for November 27, 2025, is expected to be a turning point for the organization. Stakeholders believe the election outcome will shape the direction of Ghana’s industrial development for years to come. The next leader will be responsible for steering AGI through economic uncertainty, guiding industry adaptation to global trends, and strengthening the association’s relevance.
Mr. Ayitey assured members that his leadership will bring a strategic shift, transforming AGI from being only a representative body to becoming an active engine for growth. He said the association must not only defend members’ interests but also help create real opportunities that improve their competitiveness and long-term sustainability.
For many Ghanaian businesses, the November election offers a chance to choose a leader with a fresh outlook and a plan to reposition AGI as a stronger partner for industry. As the campaign gains momentum, all eyes will be on the candidates and their proposals for reviving Ghana’s industrial future.
