Minister urges Ghanaians to patronise Made-in-Ghana fabrics

Akim Oda (E/R), Sept. 18, GNA - Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, Eastern Regional Minister on Wednesday appealed to Ghanaians to patronize the National Friday wear programme, in order to identify with the Ghanaian culture and project it to foreigners.

He also called on heads of government institutions and departments to take up the challenge to promote the programme at their work places. Mr Ofosu-Ampofo made the appeal in a keynote read on his behalf during the launching of the Municipal National Friday wear programme at Akim Oda, on the theme: "Promoting Made-in-Ghana Goods, with Special Emphasise on Textiles and Garments." The Minister explained that the government's call on the citizenry to patronize local garments was meant to develop a strategy to help resuscitate the textile industry. Mr Ofosu-Ampofo recalled that from 1960 to 1975, the industry employed about 25,000 workers.

He said it was prudent for government to initiate trade programmes to enhance the competitiveness of local textile manufacturers and also strategise to stimulate demand for Made-in-Ghana products. He noted that the business world had changed dramatically and therefore, "there are increasing pressures on managers and employees alike to integrate new information technologies into all aspects of their operations for improved effectiveness, efficiency and customer satisfaction".

Nana Akua Yaa Asantewaa III, Queen Mother of Akim Kotoku, who chaired the function, expressed concern about the poor attendance of the programme.

She asked textile manufacturers to reduce the cost of their wares to encourage patronage.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency, Madam Augustina Sekyere, a batik producer, expressed the need for players in the industry to improve the quality of their products. She appealed to government to grant soft loans to them to expand their businesses.