Manufacturing techniques of the Ghanaian small garment industry in the growing global competitive market

Abstract

The study investigated the techniques used by the small garment manufacturing figures in Ghana in this era of technological advancement with high level of global market competition. This was vital in order to change the image of the small garment industry in Ghana to maximize productivity for sustained and optimum returns as the sub-sector struggles to survive in the local and global markets. The study employed multiple case study as the research design. Purposive and stratified random sampling techniques were engaged in selecting respondents for the study. The study focussed on selected large and small garment firms, institutions of higher learning, garment merchandisers and governmental agencies sampled from three major garment manufacturing cities, Kumasi, Accra and Tema. Interview and non-participant observation were the instruments used for data collection. Data obtained were presented using grounded theory analysis, which ensured clarity and better understanding of the discussions. The study revealed among others that low level of trained personnel in the small garment sector has led to noncompliance with quality production systems causing rejection of products. The study concluded that, the quality of assembly at the small garment firms was lower compared to international best practices since the production at the local industry was not guided by any production benchmark. The study further concluded that small garment designers were deficient in creative and imaginative abilities as manifested by the designers’ dependent on design copying rather that originality. It was therefore recommended that as a matter of priority the government in collaboration with relevant stakeholders must look into formulation of policies that would ensure sustainable development of the small garment industry. Finally, the garment industry associations in collaboration with institutions of higher learning and government (COTVET) should establish training centres for the entrepreneurs in the garment industry in order to safeguard the future of the industry.