A significant groundbreaking ceremony has taken place in Savelugu, Northern Region, signalling the commencement of the construction of an apparel manufacturing facility aimed at producing clothing and promotional items for export.
Dubbed the “Northern Apparel Manufacturing Expansion Development,” the project is spearheaded by Northshore Apparel Ghana Ltd, a special-purpose vehicle. It will focus on manufacturing a range of clothing items including sportswear, workwear, children's clothing, and underwear.
With a total project cost of 10 million euros, the initiative is led by a consortium headed by MIK Designs and its partner, MUSOF Enterprise, contributing 75% of the project cost. The remaining 25% is being funded by Investing for Employment (IFE), an investment mechanism created by the KfW Development Bank on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Nurideen Mohammed, Chief Executive Officer of Northshore Apparel Ghana Ltd, outlined the project's objectives, emphasizing its focus on textile product exports to the United States market and plans to engage with other offshore buyers. He announced that the first phase of implementation would create 1,600 new jobs for women, youth, and persons living with disabilities.
Mr. Mohammed underscored the commitment to local engagement, stating that recruitment strategies would prioritize individuals without prior experience or education, with a plan to provide six months of pre-hire training.
Additionally, the project aims to collaborate with the Savelugu School for the Deaf, offering training packages to enable graduates to secure employment at the factory.
Mr. Steffen Kuhl, Managing Director of IFE, expressed the organization's support for the project, citing its potential to create jobs for youth and mitigate rural-urban migration.
Alhaji Alhassan Yakubu Tali, Managing Director of the Agricultural Development Bank, hailed the project's potential to enhance industrialization in Northern Ghana and create wealth and employment opportunities for the youth.
Hajia Ayishetu Seidu, Savelugu Municipal Chief Executive, commended the project partners for their initiative, emphasizing its role in building resilient communities resistant to violent extremism. She expressed hope that the project would stimulate discussions on revitalizing the cotton industry in the northern part of the country.
Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, former Minority Leader in Parliament and Member of Parliament for Tamale South, urged youth to seize opportunities presented by the project. He called on the government to create an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive and generate employment.
Yoo Naa Yakubu Andani Abdulai, Paramount Chief of Yoo Traditional Area in Savelugu, praised Northshore Apparel Ghana Ltd and its partners for choosing to locate the project in his traditional area. He pledged full commitment to ensuring the project's success and achievement of its objectives.
