Meet Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur: The New Visionary Leader of GEPA

Ghana’s export sector has ushered in a new era of leadership with the appointment of Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA).

Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur, the newly appointed CEO of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), has a legal background and extensive experience in leadership, administration, and strategic planning, which he now applies to the export sector.

Officially assuming office on February 4, 2025, he takes over from Osafohene Dr. Afua Asabea Asare I, with a strong vision to transform and expand the nation’s non-traditional export sector.

Who is Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur?

Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur is a seasoned public servant with a strong background in governance, law, and economic development. His appointment signals a strategic move by the government to reposition Ghana’s exports for greater competitiveness on the global stage.

Before taking on the mantle at GEPA, Kwarteng Arthur played a pivotal role in the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), serving as an Executive Board member. He was appointed to the GOC after the unfortunate passing of Emmanuel Tetteh, demonstrating his ability to step in and lead effectively in crucial moments. His experience at the GOC equipped him with significant leadership, administrative, and strategic planning skills, which he now brings to the export sector.

A Vision for Ghana’s Export Sector

Kwarteng Arthur has made it clear that his priority as CEO is to enhance the competitiveness of Ghana’s exports, particularly non-traditional exports such as processed agricultural products, textiles, and handicrafts. His vision aligns with Ghana’s broader economic transformation agenda, which emphasizes industrialization, value addition, and increased international trade opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Speaking at the official handing-over ceremony, he expressed gratitude to his predecessor, Dr. Afua Asabea Asare I, for her contributions and pledged to build upon the solid foundation she laid. He called on GEPA staff and stakeholders to collaborate in achieving key objectives, emphasizing that teamwork and innovation will be crucial in driving export growth.

Strategic Moves and Stakeholder Engagement

Since taking office, Kwarteng Arthur has already begun engaging with key industry players. He has held meetings with the CEOs of the Ghana Shippers Authority and the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE) to discuss ways to address operational challenges that hinder export growth.

His immediate focus is on removing bureaucratic bottlenecks, enhancing market access, and ensuring that Ghanaian exporters receive the necessary support to compete favorably in international markets. He has also pledged to strengthen collaboration between GEPA and private sector players, recognizing that a thriving export sector requires synergy between government agencies and businesses.

Why Kwarteng Arthur’s Leadership Matters

Ghana’s non-traditional exports have long been identified as key drivers of economic diversification and foreign exchange earnings. However, challenges such as limited market access, inadequate infrastructure, and supply chain inefficiencies have hindered growth in the sector.

With Kwarteng Arthur at the helm, there is renewed optimism that Ghana’s export sector will experience a transformation. His leadership is expected to inject fresh energy into ongoing initiatives such as the National Export Development Strategy (NEDS), which aims to increase non-traditional export revenue to $25 billion by 2029.

The expectations surrounding Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur’s leadership at GEPA are high. As Ghana positions itself as a key player in global trade, his ability to drive innovation, enhance policy implementation, and foster strong international partnerships will be critical.

The Ghanaian export community is watching closely, eager to see how his tenure unfolds. With his background in leadership, governance, and trade policy, there is a strong belief that he will leave a lasting impact on Ghana’s export industry.

About GHANA EXPORT PROMOTION AUTHORITY (GEPA)

The Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) is the National Export Trade Support Institution of the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTI) responsible for the facilitation, development, and promotion of Ghanaian exports. It was established by Act 396 in 1969 as an agency of the Ministry of Trade and Industry with the mandate to develop and promote Ghanaian exports. Our focus has primarily been to diversify Ghana’s export base from traditional Gold and other unprocessed minerals, Cocoa Beans, Timber Logs, and Lumber.

Currently, there are over 383 different Non-Traditional Export products categorized as Agricultural, Processed/Semi Processed and Handicrafts. Export Trade in Services is a new and recent addition to the non-traditional export portfolio.

GEPA acquired its Authority Status earlier this year and was publicly launched as such at the 72nd National Exporters’ Forum in September 2011. The change to Authority is in accordance with the Revised Laws of Ghana Act 1998, (Act 562) (1) of the Ghana Export Authority Act, 1969 (NLCD 396). This new designation helps to more clearly define the core functions of GEPA in terms of the marketing and promotion of NTE products.

GEPA’s clientele includes over 3000 registered private sector exporting companies organized into 17 Export Product Associations. GEPA relate to these clients both on individual corporate basis and as groups / associations. GEPA also acts as an interface between these exporters and other public organizations.

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