Nana Yaa Serwaa Opoku Addo, Chief Executive Officer of Domain Builders Ghana Ltd, is challenging traditional perceptions about women’s participation in Ghana’s construction industry.
With a background in Human Resource Management from Pentecost University, Opoku Addo entered the construction sector without extensive technical knowledge but was determined to establish herself and make a meaningful impact.
Her journey into the industry began with the retail of building materials, particularly finishing products. Over time, she expanded her operations from selling construction materials to taking on house construction projects.
According to Opoku Addo, her decision to venture into construction was partly driven by her desire to challenge the long-standing perception that the industry is primarily meant for men.
She faced several challenges in the early stages of her entrepreneurial journey, including limited access to capital.
Construction requires significant financial investment, making funding one of the major hurdles for emerging businesses in the sector.
Before establishing her hardware shop at Oyarifa, Opoku Addo had operated an online business selling makeup and sunglasses. She saved money from that venture and used the proceeds to establish her first hardware shop.
She subsequently adopted a strategy of reinvesting profits into the business, which enabled her to gradually expand her operations and move deeper into the construction industry.
Another major challenge, she noted, was convincing prospective clients that being a woman would not affect her ability to successfully execute construction projects.
Through consistency, strong work ethics and perseverance, Opoku Addo says she gradually earned the confidence of clients and strengthened her reputation in the industry.
She identifies consistency as one of the most influential factors behind her entrepreneurial progress.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Opoku Addo encourages them to remain humble, continuously acquire knowledge and be willing to ask questions.
She also advises entrepreneurs to trust the process, remain committed to their goals and combine hard work with prayer.
Her journey highlights the growing role of women in Ghana’s construction and real estate sectors, while demonstrating how determination, reinvestment and consistency can help entrepreneurs overcome financial and societal barriers.
