Gabby Otchere-Darko counters McDan’s claims on government’s private sector policies

A prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, has responded to comments made by the Executive Chairman of the McDan Group, Daniel McKorley alias McDan on the perceived lack of support for Ghana’s private sector from government policies.

Speaking at the Ghana CEO Presidential Gala Dinner on November 7, 2024, Dr McKorley expressed frustration over the challenges local businesses face, attributing these difficulties to government policies that he claims do little to foster a supportive environment.

“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,” Dr McKorley remarked.

Reflecting on his own experience, the businessman, whose McDan Group operates one of Africa’s largest salt concessions in Ada, explained the level of resilience required to run a business in Ghana. “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 stated.

However, Gabby Otchere-Darko expressed surprise at Dr McKorley’s criticisms, pointing to the substantial government support Mr. McKorley had received.

Highlighting the successful commercialisation of the Ada salt project, Gabby noted that the current government enabled McDan Group to acquire and develop the concession, a feat that had eluded past administrations.

“I am perplexed! This is from an entrepreneur who enjoyed the full support of govt to own the largest salt concession in Africa,” he wrote on X, adding that the project could produce an estimated $2 billion in salt revenue annually.

Dr McKorley argued that Ghana’s business climate often fails to empower local companies, suggesting that this undermines national development opportunities. “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,” he said.

He further claimed that, if supported, his businesses alone could generate up to $3.2 billion annually for the government. He urged policymakers to see local businesses as valuable partners and foster conditions that encourage growth, entrepreneurship, and job creation, similar to approaches in other nations.