Bekwai-Ashanti, Jan. 20, GNA - Management of Business Advocacy Challenge (BUSAC) Fund has released GH¢9,600 out of an estimated GH¢25,000 to 150 members of Drinking Bar Operators Association in Bekwai Municipality, Amansie Central and Bosome Freho Districts in Ashanti Region for capacity building and advocacy programmes to enhance their businesses.

Mr Gabriel Bernakwu, Executive Director of Mission of Hope for Society Foundations, an NGO and Consultant for the association, announced this at a day's capacity building workshop organised for members at Bekwai. Attended by 150 participants it was to equip the participants with skills and knowledge to expand their businesses and improve on their living standards.

Mr Bernakwu said the private sector being the engine of growth, government was determined to support the sector and urged them to utilise the assistance efficiently.

Mr Mohammed Yahaya, Deputy Co-ordinating Director of Bekwai Municipal Assembly, was optimistic the assistance would help improve their businesses to honour their tax obligations to Internal Revenue Service and the assembly.

Mr Kusi Akomeah, Bekwai Municipal Environmental Officer advised them to keep their environment clean to avoid the outbreak of communicable diseases.

Nana Kwaku Korankye, Chairman of Bekwai Municipal Branch of the association, said it had 200 members. He appealed to other operators to join the association to have a united front to champion their cause. Nana Ntim Banahene, Krontihene of Essumeja Traditional Area, stressed the need for members to participate effectively in activities of the association.