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The Ghana Smock Sellers and Weavers Association has called on government to support the establishment of a Smock Village following the declaration of every Wednesday as National Fugu Day by President John Dramani Mahama.
Speaking at a press conference in Tamale, Secretary of the Association, Ibrahim Abdul Fatah, expressed profound gratitude to the President for the initiative, describing it as a major boost to the smock industry and Ghana’s cultural heritage.
He noted, however, that members of the Association are currently operating within the Tamale Central Market business district, where congestion and limited space are negatively affecting productivity and growth.
Mr. Abdul Fatah appealed to government to facilitate the creation of a centralized Smock Village — a dedicated enclave for smock sellers and weavers to work in a more organized and conducive environment.
According to him, the proposed village would include a training centre to equip young people with practical skills in smock weaving and production. He said this would not only increase output but also help preserve the traditional craft for future generations while creating employment opportunities.
The Association also called for government support to enable members to travel abroad to promote Ghanaian smock on the international market, stressing that the fabric carries deep historical and cultural significance.
Mr. Abdul Fatah added that if the Smock Village becomes a reality, plans are underway to establish a museum within the enclave to preserve and showcase the history and cultural importance of the smock for visitors and researchers.
Yaw Boagyan
