Introduction
Ghana’s entrepreneurial spirit is strong and thriving. Ghanaians in cities, towns, and even remote villages are turning to self-employment as a means of achieving financial independence and flexibility. With soaring teenage unemployment and few formal job possibilities, the temptation of beginning a profitable “one-man” firm, which requires little to no personnel, is greater than ever.
These firms are inexpensive, location-independent, and driven by human ability, passion, and perseverance. Whether you live in Accra, Tamale, Keta, Sunyani, or Bimbilla, there is always room to start small, grow gradually, and produce revenue. This article delves into genuine, realistic, and profitable one-man company ideas that Ghanaians are successfully running today, enterprises that you, too, may start and run anywhere in the country.
Mobile Money Agent Business
As Ghana’s mobile money penetration grows, becoming a mobile money (MoMo) agent remains one of the most accessible and successful businesses in the country. MoMo agents are required in every community, whether in the form of a kiosk, container, or a wooden table under a shed. The requirements include a mobile phone agent SIM from MTN, Telecel, or AT, basic ID papers, and a working capital of GHS 1,000 – GHS 5,000.
Your potential profits Depending on transaction volume, agents might earn between GHS 500 and GHS 3,000 per month. To improve earnings, consider adding other services such as airtime sales and utility payments. To diversify their service offerings, I recommend that entrepreneurs engage with a bank or fintech startup such as Zeepay.
Freelance Graphic Design or Social Media Management
As more small businesses go digital, the demand for creatives graphic designers, brand strategists, and social media managers have increases dramatically. If you have digital skills, a laptop, and internet connectivity, you can provide services from any location in Ghana. To promote your services, you’ll need a laptop, an internet connection, Canva, Adobe Photoshop, or CorelDRAW, and WhatsApp or Instagram. Profit Potentials include Freelancers charge between GHS 100 and GHS 500 each design project. Monthly retainers for social media management run between GHS 800 and GHS 2,500.
Local Food Vendor / Delivery Cook
If you are a good cook, you can convert your kitchen into a company. Everyone enjoys fresh, home-cooked meals, especially working professionals, students, and single men. You do not need a restaurant or a fancy kitchen to get started. Popular meals include Waakye, Fried rice and chicken, Banku with tilapia, and Light soup with fufu. I recommend that anyone interested in this business market their menu using WhatsApp status, Facebook, and neighbourhood forums.
Provide pre-orders as well as delivery or pickup options. Ama’s Bowl, situated in Kasoa, began by delivering rice bowls to office workers every day. She is currently catering to parties and events. Your possible profits include: A GHS 15–GHS 20 dinner can provide 30-50% profit margins. With 20 orders everyday, you might make up to GHS 2,000 per month.
Phone and Laptop Repair Services
Ghana’s technology repair and mini-import business is expanding. With minimal materials and abilities, phone or laptop repairs might earn between GHS 1,500 and GHS 4,000 per month. You can work from home or at a roadside kiosk. Mini-importing fashion, electronics, or cosmetic products from China, Turkey, or Dubai and selling on WhatsApp, Jumia, or Instagram is also profitable.
Begin with GHS 500-GHS 3,000, establish a social media presence, and find a reputable supplier. Profits might surpass GHS 2,000-5,000 per month. Kobby Collections, for example, conducts his entire business from home using TikTok.
Agriculture-Based Solo Ventures (e.g. Snail or Mushroom Farming)
You don’t need acres of land to start your own agri-business. Small-scale farming of high-value, low-maintenance products such as snails, mushrooms, and catfish is becoming popular. Snail farming examples: Setup cost: GHS 1,000 to GHS 3,000, Use your backyard or small land plot to market to hotels, restaurants, and local markets. Your Profit Potential: A GHS 1,000 snail farm can produce GHS 5,000 or more in 6 months if properly scaled.
Conclusion
Being a one-man business owner in Ghana today does not imply being tiny indefinitely. It entails starting with what you have and moving up gradually. Whether you’re a university graduate, pensioner, stay-at-home mom, or a young entrepreneur with a smartphone, there’s a lucrative one-man business waiting for you. With digital tools, mobile banking, and growing internet availability, entry barriers are lower than they have ever been. Focus on providing value, remain consistent, and leverage your network to market your business.
