PROMOTION OF HANDICRAFT PRODUCTS IN ASHANTI REGION

Abstract

The craft industry is a creative sector producing traditional craft and functional wares for the informal and the formal retail market. Though, there is a considerable potential that can be maximized, the sector continues to struggle to realize that potential and establish itself as a viable and vibrant economic activity for prospective entrepreneurs.

The research was carried out on handicraft production in Ghana, particularly Ashanti region with respect to Kente weaving and wood carvings. The aim was to find out the problems confronting the marketing of handicraft products in Ghana and offer suggested solutions to them.

The study was carried out in the industry in Ghana and covered a period of five years from 2005 to 2009. Data were collected through questionnaires sent to a sample of producers and exporters as well as the staff of Ghana Export Promotion Council. Though the study was restricted to Ashanti region, the findings and the suggested recommendations are for the whole industry in Ghana. Arising from the result, it was suggested that, increased governmental participation in promotion of the handicraft products could be carried out through increased financing, educational programmes and the use of modern technological ways of producing as well as, using marketing activities that will increase the selling of the product. Increase credit schemes for both producers and exporters, training for handicraft producers with the modern ways of designing products for good functionality.