Attending the recent World Bank forum in Accra on Ghana’s jobs crisis was both inspiring and sobering. Despite impressive economic performance in recent years, it became clear that Ghana is facing a critical challenge: economic growth without meaningful job creation. For us at South West Six Ltd, the sessions provided valuable insights into how businesses like ours can contribute to building opportunities where they are most needed.
Growth Without Opportunity
The World Bank’s Ninth Ghana Economic Update revealed that Ghana’s economy grew at a steady 5.7% in 2024, a figure that many countries would envy. Yet beneath these numbers lies a different story. Too many Ghanaians, especially young people and women, remain unemployed or underemployed. The data showed that while the economy continues to expand, the benefits are not being evenly distributed, and quality employment opportunities remain elusive.
This paradox, growth alongside rising unemployment was at the heart of the forum. As we listened to the discussions, it became clear that Ghana’s development narrative is incomplete without addressing the jobs crisis. For South West Six, the issue is more than academic. Our business thrives when communities thrive, and sustainable livelihoods are central to that success.
Lessons We Took Away
Strengthening Local Value Chains
One of the strongest themes of the forum was the importance of building value chains that create lasting jobs. At South West Six, we have long believed in connecting Ghana’s natural products to global markets in a way that ensures communities benefit directly. Shea butter, African black soap, and other exports are not just commodities—they represent livelihoods. By ensuring fair returns and higher production standards, we can strengthen the resilience of local economies.
Moving Beyond Low-Productivity Work
Another key takeaway was the need to improve the quality of work. Many Ghanaians find themselves in low-paying, low-productivity roles despite having access to education. The workshop highlighted how skills development, better technology, and improved efficiency can transform work from subsistence to sustainability. At South West Six, we’re investing in training and light manufacturing improvements so that workers gain more than just income—they gain expertise, dignity, and long-term prospects.
Ghana’s Wider Context
The challenge is not unique to Ghana. Across sub-Saharan Africa, over 10 million young people enter the job market every year, yet only a fraction secure formal employment. This imbalance fuels frustration and undercuts social stability. Ghana’s story fits into this wider picture, but the country also has the potential to lead in showing how inclusive growth can work.
Reports from African Development Bank underline that job creation is the single most pressing issue for Africa’s youth. With its entrepreneurial energy and abundant natural resources, Ghana has a chance to show that growth and jobs can go hand in hand. Businesses like ours can play a small but significant role in ensuring that this vision becomes a reality.
Why It Matters for South West Six
Our business is built on the belief that trade can transform communities. When we help bring a jar of shea butter or a bar of African black soap to international shelves, we are not just exporting a product—we are exporting Ghana’s story of resilience, skill, and opportunity.
At the forum, one phrase stood out: “Economic growth without job creation is not development.” This resonates deeply with us. It is why South West Six invests in not only expanding exports but also strengthening the systems behind them—training staff, improving light manufacturing, and supporting innovation.
Aligning With National Goals
The government of Ghana has often emphasized the importance of inclusive development, but turning policies into real, measurable opportunities requires the active participation of the private sector. For us, this means taking deliberate steps to grow responsibly, build trust, and ensure that growth in our business translates into opportunities for others.
The World Bank forum made it clear that businesses have a duty to align themselves with national priorities. South West Six is proud to be part of this broader effort by creating dignified work, supporting fair trade, and ensuring that exports contribute meaningfully to both local and global economies.
Looking Ahead
As Ghana continues to navigate its economic recovery, the focus must remain on translating growth into jobs. The challenges are real—ranging from inflationary pressures to skills mismatches—but so are the opportunities. If businesses, policymakers, and international partners work together, the potential for transformation is enormous.
At South West Six, we are committed to contributing our part. Whether through improving operational efficiency, expanding our global reach, or supporting communities at the heart of production, our mission is tied to ensuring that growth does not leave people behind.
For readers and partners who share this vision, we invite you to connect with us and explore ways to collaborate. Together, we can help ensure that Ghana’s growth story is one of both numbers and people—where every statistic reflects real opportunity on the ground.
Final Thought
The World Bank’s message is clear: growth without jobs is not enough. Ghana has the potential to bridge this gap, but it requires a collective effort. For South West Six, attending the workshop reaffirmed our belief that ethical trade and sustainable business practices are not just good for communities—they are essential for national progress.
