UGBS Innovation and Incubation Hub Celebrates Milestone in BRIInG Project with Tropical AgriFoods

On the 12 of November, 2025, the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) Innovation and Incubation joined in the official commissioning of a new makerspace in Jaana, Tamale. This achievement is a key component of the BRIInG project, which is supported by The RISA Fund from the UK International Development. The event provided an opportunity to showcase the strong collaboration among the University of Ghana, the University for Development Studies (UDS), and Tropical AgriFoods, exemplifying a shared commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable development in Northern Ghana.

The ceremony was officiated by His Excellency Dr. Christian Rogg, the British High Commissioner to Ghana, who played a pivotal role in unveiling the makerspace. Attending the event were prominent figures from academia, industry, and development agencies. Professor Samuel Kojo Kwofie, the Director of the Institute of Applied Science (IAS), was among the distinguished guests, alongside Professor Angela Parry Hanson, Head of Department for Food Science and Nutrition. Also present was Professor Ernest Yaw Tweneboah-Koduah, Dean of The University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), whose leadership reinforces the university’s role in innovation and entrepreneurship promotion. Dr. Priscilla Otuo, PhD, the Coordinator of UGBS Innovation and Incubation Hub, contributed valuable insights into the hub’s role in supporting rural entrepreneurs and innovative ventures through initiatives like the BRIInG Project. Additionally, Professor Abigail Opoku Mensah, acting Administrator of the Ghana National Research Fund, was present to highlight the importance of research translation and funding opportunities for local innovations.

Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana was Professor Samuel Kojo Kwofie, the Director of the Institute of Applied Science (IAS), who expressed his sincere appreciation to the British High Commission and the RISA Fund for their continuous support of the BRIInG Project and also to the other institutions that worked with the UGBS NEST to make this makerspace a reality.

Mr. Johnson from the British High Commission, read a message on behalf of Innovate UK, highlighting the UK’s continued support for innovative ecosystems that propel sustainable industrial development.

Prof. Abigail Opoku Mensah, Acting Administrator of the Ghana National Research Fund (GNRF), urged universities to strengthen ties with industry to ensure that innovation “does not end in our lecture halls and laboratories—it must live, breathe, and work in the communities we serve.”

Mr. Senyo Kpelly, CEO of Tropical AgriFoods Company Ltd, the project's industry partner, lauded the initiative as a crucial link between "research aspirations and market implementation." He affirmed the company's dedication to establishing the factory as a benchmark for sustainable agro-industrial advancement. "Our efforts extend beyond the production of C-Real flour," he stated. "We are cultivating optimism for farmers, fostering opportunities for young individuals, and charting a more promising course for Ghana's agro-industrial future."

Alhaji Abubakari, the Regional Development Planning Officer and a representative of the Northern Regional Minister, conveyed a message of support, characterizing the initiative as "a significant stride toward the government's objective of value addition and localized industrial growth."

Mr. Gameli Adzaho, Country Technical Representative of the Research and Innovation Systems for Africa (RISA), commended the project team for illustrating that "African research institutions are capable of spearheading industrial transformation when provided with adequate support and encouragement."

The opening of this makerspace represents more than just a physical facility; it symbolizes a strategic step toward enhancing research capacity, fostering entrepreneurial spirit, and creating sustainable solutions tailored to the needs of Northern Ghana. The space is envisioned as a hub that will serve researchers, students, and entrepreneurs alike, promoting collaboration across disciplines and industries. It aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of innovative agribusiness solutions that can improve local livelihoods, address food security challenges, and stimulate economic growth in the region.

Looking ahead, UGBS Innovation and Incubation Hub remains dedicated to strengthening partnerships between academia, government, and industry to translate research findings into practical products and services. The commissioning of this makerspace signifies a vital milestone in that ongoing journey. It reflects a shared vision of fostering a vibrant ecosystem where innovative ideas can flourish, thoughtful research can be transformed into viable solutions, and local communities can benefit from the knowledge and capacity being built through these collaborative efforts. The commitment demonstrated underscores the university’s determination to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s socio-economic development and reinforce its reputation as a leading hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa.

As UGBS Nest continues to advance its initiatives, the impact of this makerspace is expected to extend well beyond the region, inspiring further cross-sector collaborations, attracting investment, and supporting the sustainable growth of Ghana’s agricultural and industrial sectors.