Government working to upscale fashion, textile and garment industry – Trade Director

The government of Ghana is working to enhance the growth of the fashion, textile and garment industry, according to Ashanti Regional Director of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Diana Gyamfi. Speaking at the inaugural national conference of the Fashion Designers’ Association of Ghana (FDAG) in Asante Mampong, Mrs. Gyamfi highlighted the industry's potential to generate employment, foster business development, and contribute to inclusive economic growth.

The government plans to bolster the sector through skills enhancement, technological advancements, adherence to quality standards, and facilitating access to both local and international markets. She also encouraged stronger collaboration among fashion industry associations, technical and vocational institutions, academia, government agencies, and the Ghana Enterprises Agency.

Mrs. Gyamfi praised FDAG for its initiatives towards establishing a Fashion Training, Innovation and Enterprise Development Centre. Despite the potential, challenges such as limited access to finance, technology, modern training, and markets persist in the sector, as noted by practitioners present at the conference. The maiden conference, themed "Transforming Ghana’s Fashion Industry through Skills, Innovation, and Enterprise Development," gathered fashion designers, master craftsmen, apprentices, and learners to discuss ways to overcome these challenges and improve technical skills, digital capabilities, sustainable fashion practices, and stronger connections between practitioners and institutions that can offer training, financing, and market opportunities.

FDAG's president, Isaac Mensah, emphasized the need for increased collaboration and a cohesive approach to unlock the industry's full potential. Professor Isaac Boateng, patron of the Association and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Skill Training and Enterprise Development (USTED), urged the government to provide necessary tools and equipment to improve the skills and productivity of young people and practitioners in the fashion industry.

He also proposed setting aside a working day for workers to wear African uniforms to promote local fashion and create avenues for designers.