The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA), with sponsorship from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), organised a five-day capacity-building programme for management staff on the transition from traditional Export Processing Zones (EPZs) to Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
Held from 9 to 13 November 2026, the training brought together the Authority’s Deputy Chief Executives, Directors and Heads of Departments. It was facilitated by Mr. Jean-Paul Gauthier, Senior Advisor to UNIDO, with the participation of Mr. Ngassam Achille Paulin, National Coordinator in charge of Investment at UNIDO’s Sub-Regional Office in Central Africa.
The programme focused on global best practices, policy frameworks, governance structures and operational reforms required to develop competitive, sustainable and investment-friendly SEZs.
Speaking at the opening, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Operations), Mr. Lateef Apau Wiredu, highlighted the timeliness of the training, particularly in view of the development of the Afienya Industrial Park.
The Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Finance & Administration), Mr. Hamidu Sibiri Musah, noted that the lessons gained would be integrated into the Authority’s policies, strategies and operations.
In her closing remarks, the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mary Awusi, commended UNIDO for its support and underscored the importance of the knowledge acquired in guiding policy, informing enclave development and preparing staff to drive the transition to the SEZ model. She also expressed optimism about deeper collaboration between GFZA and UNIDO.
The initiative reinforces the Authority’s commitment to institutional transformation and continuous capacity development as Ghana positions itself to attract quality investments, accelerate industrialisation, improve the management of industrial parks, strengthen local economic linkages and enhance its competitiveness in global value chains.
Source : Corporate Affairs, PR & Aftercare Department
Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA)
