Contributions of multinational enterprises to economic development in Ghana: A myth or reality?

2017

English

Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) drive economic development and play dominant role in globalization of the world economies. Their activities are channelled through trade, foreign direct investment and transfer of knowledge and technology. This paper outlines MNEs operations and their contributions to socio-economic development of Ghana by examining their investment projects and impacts on the national economy as well as their social roles through corporate social responsibilities. A conceptual framework was proposed and case study approach was used to gain insight into the contribution of MNEs to socio-economic development. The study revealed that majority of MNEs in Ghana have created linkages with local firms for easy accessibility to inputs and local production techniques, capacity building as well as creating market opportunities. Few MNEs perceived policies and directions of government as influencing their activities. There is therefore the need for improvement in the implementation of policies and regulatory framework to enable Ghana obtain maximum benefits from the operations of MNEs.

Williams, P. A.; Frempong, G. K.; Akuffobea, M.; Onumah, J. A.