Accra: Mrs Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, has announced plans by the Government, in collaboration with the private sector, to establish three significant garment factories by 2026. These factories are expected to create employment for 27,000 people and will be located in the Central, Bono East, and Eastern Regions.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs Ofosu-Adjare emphasized the employment potential of the garment industry during her address at the Government Accountability Series Press Conference at the Presidency in Accra. She highlighted that the industry does not require extensive training periods, stating, "It is that industry that trains you for four weeks and you already have a job." This approach is expected to generate numerous job opportunities due to the division of labor and specialization within the industry.
The Minister further noted that the garment factories would employ individuals from various educational backgrounds, ranging from university graduates to those without formal education. She underscored that the garment industry offers job opportunities without the need for certificates, providing on-the-job training for all employees.
In addition to garment factories, Mrs Ofosu-Adjare announced plans to operationalize seven agro-processing plants in the Northern, Central, Ahafo, Bono, Northeast, Bono East, and Western North Regions. These plants will focus on value chains including yam, fish, poultry, cashew nut, rice, shea butter, and palm kernel oil. The initiative aims to enhance value addition and economic development in these regions.
The Minister also revealed plans to construct two cashew processing plants with funding from the Ghana Exim Bank. These plants will be located in the Bono East Region and the Bono Region as part of the President's Accelerated Export Development initiative. This move is intended to optimize production costs by situating factories closer to raw material sources.
Additionally, Mrs Ofosu-Adjare discussed the establishment of 24-7 Business Registration Centres and Digital Helplines to support the implementation of a 24-Hour Economy. These resources aim to facilitate business registration and provide round-the-clock assistance to entrepreneurs.
The Minister also mentioned the introduction of the Consumer Protection, Competition, and Business Regulatory Reform Bills. These legislative measures are scheduled for 2026 and are designed to protect consumers and regulate competition within the market.
Lastly, Mrs Ofosu-Adjare highlighted the Government's commitment to boosting exports and strengthening Ghana's position in regional and global value chains, particularly within the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The initiative aims to leverage the vast market potential of 1.5 billion people and a $3.4 trillion economy.