By: Francis Ofori
Akosombo, Oct. 27, GNA – Supply chain management professionals have called for stronger regulations and improved coordination among industry players to enhance the management of Africa’s resources for sustainable development.
The call was made at the 2026 International Federation of Procurement and Supply Management (IFPSM) World Summit, hosted by the Chartered Institute of Supply Chain Management, Ghana (CISCM), at Akosombo in the Eastern Region.
The summit brought together stakeholders across the global supply chain industry to discuss emerging challenges, exchange knowledge, explore technological innovations and develop strategies to strengthen supply chain systems worldwide.
Mr Richard Obeng Okrah, President of CISCM, stressed the need for an integrated supply chain management approach that brought together players within the ecosystem to create wealth and promote economic development across Africa.
He said stronger collaboration would enable African countries to maximize the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and improve their participation in regional and global trade.
The Government’s 24-hour economy initiative was also cited as an example of an integrated approach to improving supply chain efficiency.
Mr Nlaliban Wujangi, representative of the Presidential Adviser on the 24-hour economy, said the initiative was expected to address inefficiencies, improve demand and create job opportunities to support business expansion and national development.
Ms Marina Lindič, Secretary-General of the IFPSM, highlighted the importance of continuous professional training to equip supply chain practitioners with the skills required to manage increasingly complex supply chain systems.
She said the federation had a responsibility to ensure that supply chain management programmes were regularly reviewed and developed to meet changing industry needs.
“Procurement decisions shape business continuity, public services and sustainable growth,” she said.
The summit, held under the theme, “Integrated Supply Chain Management – The Panacea for Global Sustainable Growth,” sought to position Africa for greater competitiveness in global trade, investment, tourism and industrialisation while promoting sustainable economic growth.
The 2026 edition featured three major components: the Professionals Summit and C-Suite Forum, the Business Summit and Deal Room, and the Tourism Supply Chain Summit and Recognition Night.
The event provided a platform for professionals, business leaders and other stakeholders to build partnerships, explore investment opportunities and develop strategies to drive economic prosperity.
The grand opening and launch of the summit was chaired by His Royal Majesty Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III, the Akwamuhene, who urged the federation to establish an office or regional presence in Akosombo.
He said such a move would strengthen professional practice, facilitate knowledge exchange and leverage the area’s resources to promote economic growth.
The summit attracted business leaders, government officials, international delegates, traditional rulers and queen mothers, among other dignitaries.
Ghana handed over hosting responsibilities for the annual world summit to Türkiye, which is expected to host the 2027 edition.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade