On this remarkable occasion, the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) proudly marks its 11th anniversary, celebrating a journey defined by faith, resilience, and an unshakable commitment to Ghana’s trade sector.
From Vision to Reality
In his anniversary reflection, Mr. Samson Asaki Awingobit, Executive Secretary of IEAG, expressed deep gratitude to God Almighty for His divine protection and grace since the Association’s inception on 30th January 2014.
“Many doubted my vision, some mocked me as a ‘one-man association’ or a ‘lone walker’, but I stayed focused and committed,”
Mr. Awingobit recounted.
“With resilience, diligence, perseverance, and hard work, I pressed on.”
From challenging unfair trade practices to influencing policy reforms, IEAG has grown from a single voice to a respected national force in advocacy, research, and trade policy dialogue.
Celebrating the Team
During the event, Mr. Awingobit paid tribute to his dedicated staff, past and present.
Special awards were presented to:
- Eric Gambeidu – Loyal Personal Assistant
- Chris Azu – Media Aide
- Emmanuel – Driver
- Moses – Security Aide
In recognition of their loyalty and service, awardees received cash tokens and a motorcycle.
Honouring Guests and Partners
The 11th anniversary drew an impressive list of distinguished guests, including:
- Prof. Ransford Gyampo – Guest Speaker
- Mr. Kwabena Ofosu-Appiah – Former GIFF President, Chair of the occasion
- Nick Danso – Executive Chairman, Ghana Link (ICUMS)
- Lawyer Kamaldeen – Director-General, Ghana Maritime Authority
- Past and current Director-Generals of GPHA: Mr. Richard Anamoo, Mr. Paul Ansah, Mr. Michael Luguje, and Mr. Paul Tanye
- Dr. Mary Awusi – CEO, Ghana Free Zones Authority
- Leadership from GIPC and other state and private institutions
Corporate partners also received special appreciation, including B5 Plus, Melcom, OLAM Ghana, Imexco Ghana, Cave & Garden, Finatrade, Rana Motors, Poultrade Ghana, Labianca Company, Ramani Distributors, Ofix Logistics, Zonda, and Special Industries.
“These partnerships are the backbone of our advocacy and impact,”
Mr. Awingobit noted.
Strength in Collaboration
IEAG’s strong relationships with sister associations such as GIFF, ACHAG, CUBAG, FFAG, TAGG, GUTA, FABAG, FAGE, AGI, and others were also celebrated. The media fraternity was commended for amplifying the Association’s voice and ensuring trade issues remain in the national spotlight.
A New Digital Era
In addition to marking 11 years of service, the Association unveiled its new corporate website — a platform designed to improve accessibility, transparency, and member engagement in the digital age.
Personal Gratitude
Mr. Awingobit gave heartfelt thanks to his wife, Mrs. Mary Asaki, and their four children — Nathan, Princess, John, and Precious — for their unwavering love, sacrifices, and prayers.
“This work demands so much time and attention, and Mary has stood firmly by me, taking care of the home and children so I can fulfill my duties,”
he said.
Looking Ahead
As IEAG steps into its second decade, its mission remains clear: to advocate for fair trade policies, strengthen partnerships, and contribute to nation-building.
“We count our blessings and remain thankful. Jehovah, we are forever grateful for Your guidance and favour. The journey continues, and we are determined to go beyond the sky,”
Mr. Awingobit concluded.
Explore our new website: www.ieaghana.com
