Assessing the impact of smock production in Northern Region of Ghana

Abstract

This study aims to examine the contribution of smock production in Northern Ghana, its promotion of Northern Ghanaian cultural identity and how it impacts the Ghanaian economy in general. The Descriptive research design was used to conduct the study. Using the multistage sampling technique where both the convenience and purposive sampling techniques were used to select a total 78 participants from 10 smock producers in the Norther Region of Ghana. Questionnaires were used as the main data collection instruments. The study found that smock production contributes significantly to the livelihood of people in the north and the general economy of Ghana and that smock production in the Northern Region of Ghana keeps people employed, plays a role in the garment manufacturing industrial sector and is related sub-sectors. More so, the study observed that smock production in the Northern Region of Ghana is challenged by low patronage, high cost of raw materials for production, financial difficulties, non-availability of raw materials, general neglect, lack of political will and lack of investment in machinery/equipment. From the findings of the study it was therefore recommended that higher degree of improvement in terms of providing quality at optimal cost, maintenance and conquering the market, and making a recognizable brand in terms of Smock production in Northern Ghana will be achieved.