Businessman Daniel McKorley, known as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the McDan Group, has admonished young adults to take on jobs no matter what.

He argues that any job that puts food on the table must not be looked down upon.

McDan, who is a serial entrepreneur, noted that people mostly judge jobs but people’s judgement won’t take care of you so what they think of particular jobs must not be of concern.

Making this position known in a post shared via social media, McDan as he is popularly called said “As a young adult, there’s no shame in doing odd jobs to fix your life. People will talk but no one will save you.

“Work is work. It doesn’t have to be glamorous. Don’t be embarrassed by the work that you do. If it puts food in the fridge, a roof over your head, and helps you take care of yourself and your family, then embrace it. People’s judgement won’t take care of you and neither will their praise.”

The CEO of the McDan Group, Dr. Daniel McKorley has advised persons who are willing to establish businesses in Ghana, urging them to brace themselves for the challenges inherent in the country’s business environment.

His comments were made at the recent Ghana CEO-Presidential Gala Dinner, where he provided a candid assessment of the obstacles faced by the private sector.

“I will be very blunt,” Dr. McKorley began, adding. “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, popularly known as McDan, highlighted the resilience required to succeed as a Ghanaian business owner.

“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 advised.

“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 added.

He noted the economic potential of his companies if the government could establish a more supportive framework.

“If you build the life of my businesses… we can generate $3.2 billion for the government every year,” he noted.

Dr. McKorley pointed to the example of other countries that actively collaborate with their indigenous companies in difficult times.

He suggested that Ghana could do the same, leveraging established local businesses to drive economic growth.

“Imagine if the government just called on McDan and other big businesses in times of need, like other countries do,” he remarked.

Source : Modern Ghana

The Chief Executive of McDan Group of Companies, Daniel McKorley, has said it takes boldness to establish and run business in the country.

During the Ghana CEO-Presidential summit held in Accra, the business magnate explained that the system of Ghana does not offer enough support to entrepreneurs.

He shared instances of challenges he faced while establishing his own business in Ghana, emphasising the difficulties he went through to build the McDan Group of Companies.

“Being a Ghanaian to do business in Ghana, you have to be brave, many times we don’t support our own.

“I have tasted it, I have slept with it, and I living with it and it’s quite dangerous and difficult,” he said on Thursday.

Mr McKorley further noted that if the country had ten businesses that could generate $3.2 billion annually, the country would not need to seek financial aid from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to bolster the economy.

He also mentioned that he does not believe in manifestoes but rather a national agenda.

“If we can all work towards a single national agenda, and implement a straightforward policy to build the greatest businesses in the country for the next four, five, or 10 years, we have everything we need,” he commented.

Mr McKorley went on to suggest that all Ghanaians should come together to contribute to the growth of the economy.

He urged everyone to assist the government, stating that they should not seek refuge in other countries as Ghana is their only home.

Source: JoyOnline

The CEO of McDan Group, Dr Daniel Mckorley, has emphasised the importance of a unified national agenda over political manifestos.

Expressing scepticism about the promises of political parties, Dr McKorley during the Ghana CEO-Presidential Gala Dinner on Thursday, highlighted the need for a single long-term vision for Ghana’s economic growth.

“I have read the two manifestos of the two parties,” Dr McKorley revealed. “Honestly, I don’t believe in manifestos, but I believe in a national agenda.”

He explained that the nation’s growth requires a collective focus and alignment across political lines.

“If we scale towards one national agenda and have one straight policy, we could achieve so much more over the next five, ten years,” he said.

Dr McKorley argued that a well-defined national agenda would allow businesses and government to work collaboratively, fostering conditions for Ghana to develop world-class industries.

He pointed to other countries where governments align closely with their private sectors to drive development.

“I was listening to President-elect Trump recently, and he made very straightforward statements towards the private sector,” Dr McKorley added.

“We need to get serious here. We can help government, and we must.”

For Dr McKorley, a national agenda would not only streamline development but also instil a sense of responsibility and unity within the business community.

“This is our country. We don’t have anywhere else to go,” he declared. “All my investments are in Ghana, and we have to put all our resources here.”

Source : JoyOnline

The McDan Group and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop national capabilities in marine transport and logistics.

The signing ceremony took place in Tema, marking a significant step towards enhancing domestic maritime infrastructure.

Established in 1986, GPHA is responsible for the planning, development and regulation of ports in the country.

McDan Group, an indigenous conglomerate, operates in shipping, freight forwarding customs clearance, cargo and port handling, transportation and haulage, fixed based operations, real estate, construction, civil engineering, agriculture, salt mining, among others. McDan Group’s salt production operations are run through its subsidiary, ElectroChem Ghana Limited.

With the acquisition of a 30-year renewable lease for the Ghana Highway Authority’s ferry maintenance and operations terminal site in Ada, McDan plans to develop the “ElectroChem Terminal, Port of Ada”.

This project aims to streamline the management and export of bulk natural and processed salt, addressing the growing regional and global demand for salt.

The collaboration is expected to improve Ghana’s cargo services management capacity, reduce operational costs, and bolster socio-economic activities, particularly within the salt business cluster.

The planned ElectroChem Terminal will include essential facilities for bulk salt handling and processing, ultimately enhancing accessibility for export to international markets.

Dr.  McKorley commented on the importance of the MoU, stating: “This agreement reinforces our commitment to developing Ghana’s marine sector. By investing in infrastructure and human capital, we are not only improving logistics but also contributing to the local economy”.

The project will include feasibility studies to assess technical, economic, and environmental viability, as well as the development of navigation channels and terminal facilities.

Key components will involve constructing quay walls, storage facilities, and upgrading the road network connecting Ada to major highways, thus facilitating efficient transportation of salt products.

The MoU also establishes a Joint Project Development Team to oversee technical meetings, stakeholder engagement, and the execution of various services agreements. Both parties will work closely to ensure the project’s successful implementation, aiming for further agreements to enhance collaboration.

With ElectroChem holding the largest salt mining concession in Africa, currently producing 650,000 tonnes annually, and a production capacity exceeding 2 million tonnes annually, the development of the Ada port is poised to reduce Ghana’s salt import dependency and enhance its export capabilities.

This initiative is expected to create jobs, strengthen local economies, and foster sustainable growth in the region.

As the project progresses, McDan Group aims to build a state-of-the-art facility that includes warehouses, maintenance docks, and residential amenities, contributing to the overall development of the Ada community.

…signs US$bn Kenya deal set to revolutionize African trade connectivity

In a landmark deal, McDan Group of Ghana has signed a billion-dollar infrastructure agreement with Kenya, focusing on strengthening trade between the two nations.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), outlines plans to develop port infrastructure and logistics systems that will facilitate the smooth movement of goods between Ghana and Kenya, generating an estimated US$1 billion in annual turnover.

Speaking about the agreement, Dr. Daniel McKorley, CEO& Chairman of McDan Group, emphasized the critical role of the company’s infrastructure investments, including the construction of warehouses and the acquisition of cargo planes.

He also mentioned the revival of the historic Black Star Line, which is set to play a key role in enhancing intra-African trade.

Dr. McKorley underscored the importance of African-owned enterprises in shaping the continent’s trade future, despite competition from foreign entities.

The MoU is expected to open up significant opportunities for economic growth, improved trade connectivity, and strengthened ties between West and East Africa.

Source : B&FTonline

Founder and CEO of McDan Group, Dr. Daniel McKorley, has outlined a bold vision for transforming Africa’s logistics sector.

Dr. McKorley, speaking at the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Conference and Annual General Meeting, stressed the importance of local ownership, innovation and partnerships in shaping the future of the continent’s logistics landscape.

“Success is inevitable when opportunity meets preparedness,” McKorley said, reflecting on his rise in the logistics industry, which he describes as the “engine of growth for every economy”.

He shared how his determination and strategic vision, alongside McDan Group’s achievements, have led to key milestones in a competitive sector.

One of the highlights of his speech was McDan Group’s role in addressing logistics challenges during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

McKorley explained how the company helped distribute essential medicines and food across Ghana.

He also revealed a new agreement with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GHAPOHA) to build a privately-owned port, the first of its kind in the country.

With government support, he said the project aims to address Africa’s logistical challenges and offer locally-driven solutions for trade and transport.

“In logistics, you need to be honest and have integrity. Without integrity, you crash,” McKorley stated.

He also drew attention to the growing influence of foreign investors in Ghana’s logistics sector, particularly in air and sea transport, urging for more local control and ownership of these crucial infrastructures.

McKorley’s strategic vision includes partnerships with organisations like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost logistics operations and a billion-dollar deal with Kenya to further expand McDan Group’s footprint.

He also celebrated the launch of his first ship to Vietnam, marking the revival of the historic Black Star Line. His goal is to operate over 100 vessels across Africa, a move set to reshape the continent’s maritime logistics.

The conference featured a panel discussion comprising industry leaders like Professor Kofi Abochi, who reinforced the importance of African-led initiatives in logistics and transport.

Source : B&FT Online

The Executive Chairman of the McDan Group, Dr. Daniel McKorley, is optimistic that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between McDan Group and the government of Kenya will yield significant results in the implementation of the AfCFTA.
Dr. McKorley believes that this move will result in a financial turnover of about $1 billion as his organisation positions itself as a key player in facilitating the seamless movement of goods across the continent under the free trade pact.

In an interview with CNBC Africa, the McDan Group Chairman explained that they are making strategic investments in port infrastructure and logistics, particularly in Kenya, as part of efforts to bridge trade gaps and overcome existing barriers between West and East Africa, specifically between Ghana and Kenya.

“The MoU is intended to facilitate business between the countries, and it is quite comprehensive. We are moving almost 100 containers with an annual turnover of about US$1 billion. However, it involves more support services for each country, which is why it is bilateral,” he said.He emphasised that infrastructure remains a key component of implementing trade activities under AfCFTA, adding that making these investments is crucial for the successful movement of goods and services across the continent.

As a free trade area connecting 1.3 billion people across 55 countries, with a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$3.4 trillion, the AfCFTA, which is headquartered in Ghana, promises immense new markets, accelerated industrialisation, and fresh investment opportunities.

Source : Ghana Web

Daniel McKorley, Group Chairman of the McDan Group of Companies, has strongly advocated for finding innovative solutions to reduce the cost of cargo and improve intra-African trade on the continent at the ongoing AfCFTA meeting in Kigali.

He emphasised that improving intra-African trade relies on enhancing logistical support for moving goods within the continent with less stress and cost to customers.

The Group CEO of McDan Companies made these statements on Friday, October 11, 2024, during a plenary discussion on the topic “Leveraging Trading Companies and Strategic Partnerships for Intra-African Trade,” monitored by Nyansa TV at the ongoing AfCFTA meeting at the Kigali Convention Centre.

In addressing the challenges of intra-African trade, Mr. McKorley disclosed his company’s plans to launch Black Star Line and the Black Shipping Company by acquiring two cargo planes and a vessel to initiate the process.

He asserted, “Whoever controls the air and sea controls the business. It is crucial for us to take action and implement solutions.”

He added, “It is unacceptable that in the 21st century, cargo from Ghana to Senegal, for example, must go through Belgium before reaching Senegal. These challenges inflate cargo costs, impeding business growth in Africa.”

McKorley believed that for the Continental Free Trade to succeed, it is vital for African governments and businesses to address logistical challenges.

To address this, he stated, “We are establishing warehouses across the continent to ensure goods move efficiently, with proper customs procedures and freight rates. Let’s think globally and act locally.”

The plenary discussions were moderated by Mr. Godfred Mutziwa (Journalist, CNBC Africa), with Dr. Paul Adalikwu (Secretary General, MOWCA) opening the session. Speakers included Mr. Daniel McKorley (McDan Group), Mr. Felix Chege (CEO, Real Resources), Ms. Nevine Nakhla (El Gondy Trading Company), Ms. Babalwa Ngonyama (Global CEO, Sinayo Group), Dr. Fareed Kwesi Arthur (Coordinator, Ghana National AfCFTA Coordinating Office), and Mr. Rahul Mittal (Director Intra Africa Sales, Arise).

The second edition of the AfCFTA Business Forum, known as “Biashara Afrika 2024 (#BA 2024),” is taking place at the Kigali Convention Centre. It began on October 9 and is scheduled to conclude on October 11, 2024, under the patronage of the Rwandan President, H. E. Paul Kagame.

This year’s theme, ‘Dare to Invent the Future of the AfCFTA,’ #BA2024 aims to facilitate discussions between African public and private sectors, multinationals, and key stakeholders on the challenges and opportunities of building regional and continental value chains and establishing reliable supply chain networks to unlock the full potential of intra-African trade.

Source : Ghana Web

The Group Chairman of the McDan Group of Companies, Daniel McKorley, has strongly made a case at the ongoing AfCFTA meeting in Kigali, on finding ingenious solutions to reducing the cost of cargo and improving intra-African trade on the continent.

He emphasised that improving Intra-African trade hinges on the improvement of logistical support for goods to be moved within the continent with less stress and cost to the customer.

The Group CEO of MacDan Companies made these remarks on Friday while contributing to a plenary discussion on the topic “Leveraging Trading Companies and Strategic Partnerships for Intra-African Trade”, monitored by Nyansa TV at the ongoing AfCFTA meeting being held at the Kigali Convention Centre in Kigali.

In tackling the problems associated with Intra-African trade, Mr. McKorley revealed his company’s intention of starting Black Star Line and the Black Shipping Company by procuring two cargo planes and a vessel.

“Whoever controls the air and controls the sea controls the business. It’s imperative and incumbent on us to start something. That is the solution we’re bringing into the business.

“It’s unthinkable that in the 21st century when cargo is being moved from Ghana to Senegal for example, it has to go through Belgium before coming back to Senegal. These are real problems that increase the cost of cargo, hindering business growth and development in Africa,” he stressed.

Mr. McKorley thought that for the Continental Free Trade to work and be successful, African governments and businesses needed to find logistical solutions to its problems.

To solve this, according to him, “we’re also building warehouses across the continent to make sure goods move at the right cost, customs and also at the right freight rate. Let’s think globally and act locally.”

The second edition of the AfCFTA Business Forum, dubbed “Biashara Afrika 2024 (#BA 2024)” is being held at the Kigali Convention Centre. It was scheduled from 9th to 11th October, 2024, under the patronage of the Rwandan President, H. E. Paul Kagame.This year’s edition, themed “Dare to Invent the Future of the AfCFTA” provided an engaging and dynamic platform for continued dialogue between African public and private sectors, multinationals, and key stakeholders regarding the challenges and opportunities in the process of building regional and continental value chains and establishing reliable supply chain networks, which are essential to unlocking the full potential of intra-African trade.

Source: JoyOnline