Yesli Ice CEO Shines at MTN SMEGA Awards, Takes Top SME Prize

MTN Ghana has reaffirmed its deep commitment to supporting Ghana’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) at the 2025 SMEGA Awards ceremony in Accra.

The event, themed “Sustaining Ghana SMEs in a Globally Competitive Market,” recognized the outstanding contributions of Ghanaian SMEs to the country’s economic growth and development.

 

Speaking at the ceremony, Angela Mensah-Poku, Chief Enterprise Business Officer of MTN Ghana, commended Ghanaian entrepreneurs for their creativity and tenacity. “SMEs contribute over 70% of Ghana’s GDP and employ millions across every region. MTN is committed to providing MSMEs with the digital tools and commercial ecosystem needed to compete and grow beyond Ghana’s borders,” she said.

 

Ms. Mensah-Poku highlighted MTN’s ongoing initiatives to accelerate SME growth, including MTN Adwumapa, MoMo for Business, the SME Accelerator Programme, and SME Business Clinics. These programs aim to equip enterprises with robust digital tools, financial inclusion, and comprehensive business development support.

The highlight of the night was the recognition of Rita Aku-Shika Diabah, Chief Executive Officer of Yesli Ice, who was named Overall Best SME of the Year. Ms. Diabah also secured three additional awards: SME Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, Production Innovation, and Food and Beverage categories.

Kwesi Ofori Jnr, Head of SMEGA Ghana, expressed gratitude to MTN Ghana, sponsors, and partners for their consistent support. “Through this platform, many businesses have grown into regional and global brands. Together, we are building a stronger and more prosperous SME future,” he said.

Shri Manish Gupta, India’s High Commissioner to Ghana, praised Ghana’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening collaboration in trade, technology, and capacity development. He announced plans to double India-Ghana trade from USD 3 billion to USD 6 billion within five years.

The 2025 SMEGA Awards recognized 21 other SMEs from various industries for their outstanding contributions to business innovation and growth. The event was a testament to MTN Ghana’s commitment to empowering SMEs and driving Ghana’s economic growth.