Dr. Daniel McKorley, CEO of McDan Group, has openly criticised government policies for stifling the growth of Ghana’s private sector, arguing that these policies create an unfavourable environment for local entrepreneurs.
Speaking at the recent Ghana CEO-Presidential Gala Dinner, Dr. McKorley was blunt in his assessment, stating, “Government policies have really not helped the private sector. That is where we are sitting right now, and we have to be frank about it.”
Reflecting on his own experiences, Dr. McKorley emphasised the difficulties faced by Ghanaians trying to succeed in business under the current economic conditions.
“If you want to do business in Ghana, then you have to be prepared. Being a Ghanaian doing business in Ghana, you have to be brave,” he added.
Despite building McDan Group into a major conglomerate, Dr. McKorley expressed frustration over the lack of government initiatives to support and empower local businesses.
He also highlighted a perceived lack of support for Ghanaian-owned enterprises, saying, “Many times, it looks like we don’t support our own. I have tasted it, I have slept with it, and I’m living with it—it’s quite dangerous and difficult.”
Dr. McKorley also criticised the government for not capitalising on the potential of the private sector, calling it a missed opportunity for national development.
He argued that if the government actively engaged with large businesses like McDan Group, it could generate significant economic benefits.
“If you build the life of my businesses, we can generate $3.2 billion for the government every year. Imagine if the government just called on McDan and other big businesses in times of need, like other countries do,” he said.
The CEO urged the government to view local businesses as partners in economic progress and called for policies that empower entrepreneurs to create jobs and strengthen Ghana’s economic stability.