The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) have partnered with the Ghana Chamber of Entrepreneurs with Disabilities (GCED), the Osei Collective, and the Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association to open a fashion training hub in Kumasi.
The hub, located at Santase, aims to empower persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the fashion industry through the “Make Fashion Inclusive” project.
The project seeks to provide training and employment opportunities for 100 PWDs, with a minimum of 50% being women, in various fashion-related skills such as dressmaking, fashion design, embroidery, beading, and millinery works.
The six-month training programme will equip beneficiaries with the necessary skills and tools to start their own businesses or seek employment in the fashion industry. To support their participation, each beneficiary will receive a monthly stipend of Gh¢500 to offset their transportation costs.
The YEA provided the training facility, while GIZ supplied the training equipment and resources. The partners are contributing up to 50% of the project’s total cost, with GIZ covering the remaining funds. The GCED is leading stakeholder engagement and beneficiary mobilisation, while Osei Collective will provide digital skills training, online visibility for the hub, and support in attracting buyers.
The inauguration ceremony took place on Thursday, May 29, 2025, and was attended by key stakeholders and beneficiaries.
The Chief Executive Officer of YEA, Malik Basintale, urged the beneficiaries to take the training seriously, emphasising that the skills acquired would empower them economically to live dignified lives. He pledged the agency’s commitment to empowering persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in the country.
Mr. Basintale highlighted the importance of disability inclusion in national development, stating, “At the Youth Employment Agency, we believe that disability inclusion must be central to national development. And so, we are committed to ensuring that our policies, programmes, and interventions are intentionally designed to be inclusive and accessible.”
He commended his predecessor, Mr. Kofi Agyapong, who initiated the process in September 2024.
The President of GCED, Mr. Alex Tetteh, described the project as a transformative moment in Ghana’s journey towards inclusivity.
He emphasised that the “Make Fashion Inclusive” project is not just about clothing but about dignity, identity, and economic opportunity for persons with disabilities.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to create a more inclusive society. Fashion is a powerful tool for expression and employment, and this initiative opens doors for creativity, enterprise, and inclusion. Let us continue to push boundaries, create platforms, and champion innovation that reflects the full spectrum of Ghana’s diversity. Together, we are not just making fashion—we are making history.”
He praised the partners for their commitment to promoting disability inclusion and empowerment.
Emmanuella Nimo, speaking on behalf of the first set of beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), GIZ Ghana, YEA, GCED, and Osei Collective for their support.
She highlighted the challenges they faced before the project, including lack of access to apprenticeship opportunities and resources.
The beneficiaries have been undergoing training for four weeks and are optimistic about their potential after completing the program.
The beneficiaries, however, highlighted challenges such as accommodation difficulties and requested additional support, including lunch provision, to enable them to focus on their training.
With the project now underway, the beneficiaries are poised to gain valuable skills and experience, paving the way for a brighter future in Ghana’s fashion industry. The success of this initiative will not only empower individuals but also contribute to a more inclusive and diverse fashion sector.
