Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Sampson Ahi, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to revitalizing the country’s textile and garment sector, citing its crucial role in job creation and economic transformation.
His remarks came during a working tour of the Ajabeng textiles and garment enclave in Accra, where he engaged directly with industry leaders to assess operations and discuss strategic support under the government’s 24-hour economy initiative.
Supporting a 24-Hour Industrial Vision
At Dignity DTRT Textile Company, which employs over 6,000 workers and exports exclusively to major global brands like Walmart and Fruit of the Loom, Ahi was welcomed by CEO Wasantha Perera and Managing Director Salma Salifu. The company endorsed the 24-hour economy initiative, noting that it already aligns with the policy and is prepared to expand operations if granted access to additional land.
Empowering Local Enterprises and Exporters
During his visit to Sleek Garment Export Ltd, owned by industry veteran Nora Bannerman, Ahi was briefed on the company’s achievements and post-pandemic recovery. Bannerman emphasized the company’s readiness to scale up production with support for advanced cutting machinery and additional workspace. “If you make quality your hallmark, you can never go wrong,” she stated, highlighting their internship programs as part of youth skills development.
At Sixteen/47, a manufacturer of uniforms for the Ghana Armed Forces, owner Nura Archer drew attention to trade challenges within the West African region. “It takes up to seven weeks to transport goods to Nigeria due to border bottlenecks,” she explained, urging the government to ease regional trade constraints.
Sector-Wide Challenges and United Appeals
The Deputy Minister also toured Global Garments and Textiles Ltd, Damaris Garments, Nallem Clothing, and Bulluk Ghana Ltd, all of which echoed common themes: the need for increased government contracts, improved access to land, modernized equipment, and enhanced training support.
At Bulluk Ghana Ltd, Ahi praised the company’s in-house technical maintenance team, calling it a “model for boosting factory uptime and productivity.”
Industry players also advocated for inclusive employment policies, including training and opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) as part of the broader 24-hour economic development strategy.
Government Support and Next Steps
In response, Ahi pledged greater collaboration and emphasized the government’s willingness to subsidize training costs for entry-level workers, especially for small and mid-sized manufacturers. “We recognize your role in job creation and national development, and we will work together to ensure a thriving local industry that benefits both businesses and citizens,” he concluded.
The visit reinforces Ghana’s push to build a competitive, inclusive, and export-driven textile and apparel sector underpinned by modern infrastructure and strategic policy backing.
