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Ghana has reached a significant milestone in its garment and textile industry with the successful completion of the nation’s first-ever WRAP (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production) Technical Assistance Training of Trainers workshop. The landmark two-day event took place in Accra on Tuesday, June 11, 2025.
Organised by the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry (MoTAI) with support from GIZ’s “Invest for Jobs” programme, the workshop marks a first not only for Ghana but for the entire West African subregion.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Mr. Sampson Ahi, hailed the initiative as a strategic step toward building a sustainable and globally competitive apparel industry in Ghana.
“This workshop is more than just a training session. It is a strategic investment in Ghana’s future as a key player in the global textile and apparel industry,” Mr. Ahi remarked.
He noted that the programme aims to develop a team of certified WRAP Technical Assistants who will support local factories in meeting internationally recognized standards related to labour practices, environmental responsibility, and ethical business conduct.
Mr. Ahi emphasized that in today’s competitive global market, responsible sourcing and compliance with ethical standards are no longer optional, but essential for countries aspiring to thrive in the international apparel value chain.
The WRAP certification, he said, serves as a gateway to international markets by demonstrating a commitment to fair labour, environmental sustainability, and ethical operations.
The workshop is expected to significantly enhance Ghana’s efforts to position itself as a reliable and responsible sourcing destination within the global textile and garment industry.
He warned that without WRAP certification, Ghanaian factories could risk losing access to lucrative contracts from global retailers, thereby undermining the competitiveness of the “Made-in-Ghana” brand.
Currently, only two companies in Ghana are WRAP-certified, with two more awaiting approval and nine in the preparatory stages.
The high cost of foreign audits and gaps in workplace systems have traditionally made compliance difficult for local firms. However, Mr Ahi expressed optimism that the training of local WRAP Technical Assistants will make certification more affordable and accessible.
He also thanked GIZ, development partners, facilitators, and all stakeholders for their commitment and urged continued collaboration to expand certification coverage and develop more skilled professionals in the industry.
“This training is not just a capacity-building exercise-it is a springboard for opportunity, credibility, and competitiveness. Let us seize this moment and make Ghana a hub for ethical garment manufacturing,” he added.
Mr. John Duti, the team leader, in his remarks, commended the relevance and growing impact of the textile and garment sub-sector in Ghana, highlighting its evolution from domestic tailoring practices to structured factory production.
Reflecting on earlier years, he recalled how mothers used sewing machines at home, often patching children’s clothes-a testament to the long-standing cultural connection to garment-making.
He stated that the textile sector had transitioned into a promising avenue for employment, especially among the youth, with several factories emerging across the country.
He emphasised the government’s commitment to driving a real physical economy includes support for this sub-sector.
Source: myghanadaily
