The German Development Cooperation, in partnership with Ghana’s Ministry of Finance, has successfully concluded the Support to the Private and Financial Sector (PFS) Programme, marking significant strides in promoting inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.
Launched in 2023, the three-year programme sought to expand access to finance, foster green and sustainable business models, and enhance employment opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Over its implementation period, the initiative reached more than 6,000 MSMEs and facilitated the creation of over 550 jobs.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Dr. Christian Jahn, Head of the PFS Programme, said: “We developed financial products together with financial institutions, reached about 6,000 MSMEs with our interventions, and created more than 550 jobs.”
The programme collaborated with 15 financial institutions to develop 25 innovative financial products, benefiting 2,400 MSMEs—74 per cent of which were women-led businesses.
It also supported key policy frameworks, including Ghana’s Green Finance Taxonomy and Microfinance Policy, aimed at creating an enabling environment for MSMEs to thrive.
Dr. Jahn emphasized that despite challenges, the programme demonstrated that MSMEs can drive economic growth and job creation when provided with the right support.
He noted that partnerships between government, private sector, and development partners remained critical for sustaining these gains.
The initiative further established five regional networks for Inclusive Local Economic
Development (NILED), linking MSMEs with financial institutions and business service providers.
It also promoted environmentally responsible business models, creating over 350 green jobs and supporting climate-smart enterprises.
Wilhelm Hugo, NIED Cluster Coordinator, expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Finance and regulatory bodies for their collaboration and commitment to the programme’s vision.
Cynthia Arthur, Head of the Capital Market Unit at the Ministry of Finance, commended the programme for its role in building capacity and providing financial support to MSMEs.
She highlighted ongoing efforts to develop Ghana’s green finance taxonomy to support climate-smart SMEs in producing sustainable goods and services.
Implemented by GIZ and funded by the German Development Cooperation and the European Union, the PFS Programme has laid a strong foundation for a resilient MSME ecosystem in Ghana. Its impact is expected to contribute significantly to the country’s economic development and employment landscape.
