Omanghana
New Patriotic Party presidential candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has called for targeted support for Ghanaian artisans, identifying affordable energy, improved access to credit and professional certification as priorities for strengthening their businesses.
During an engagement with leaders of the Ghana Artisans Association in Accra, he said addressing the difficulties facing small trade businesses could help expand employment opportunities, particularly for young people.
The discussions involved representatives of hairdressers, beauticians, tailors, dressmakers, barbers and businesses in the construction and building materials sectors. Participants highlighted challenges affecting their daily operations and prospects for growth.
Dr. Bawumia proposed greater use of solar energy to help shops and workshops reduce electricity expenses. He identified energy costs as an operational burden that required practical solutions.
He also advocated more flexible financing arrangements to enable artisans to purchase modern equipment and expand their businesses. Better access to capital, he argued, would help operators improve productivity and pursue opportunities currently limited by financial constraints.
Training and recognised skills certification were other priorities outlined during the meeting. Dr. Bawumia said these interventions could improve standards of workmanship, strengthen professionalism and make artisans more competitive.
On taxation, he proposed a flat or simplified system suited to small businesses to ease compliance and reduce administrative difficulties.
He stressed that the artisanal sector’s contribution extends beyond the livelihoods of individual operators, pointing to its potential to train and employ substantial numbers of young Ghanaians.
The engagement formed part of wider consultations with trade associations, market groups and professional bodies to incorporate their concerns into policy development.
Source: Omanghana
