Ashanti Regional Minister (2nd L) in a group photograph with some members of the association
The Oforikrom Furniture Makers Association of Ghana has officially broken grounds for the construction of their ultramodern showroom in Kubease Sekyere in the Juaben Municipality of the Ashanti Region.
The action by the association marks a significant transformation and relocation from their current site in front of the Oforikrom Assembly.
The project estimated at GH₵2 million is aimed at developing the furniture industry in the area and also bringing employment to the people.
Chairman of the Association, Osei Yaw, expressed gratitude to his members for their dedication and appealed to the government to support the construction of their proposed showroom which is expected to be ready within two years.
According to him, the facility when completed will serve as a hub for sustaining their business and creating employment opportunities for the indigenes and the surrounding communities which will also serve as a one-stop shop for the buyers and tourists.
He explained that with the groups growth and move by the Oforikrom Municipality to relocate them from their current location, there was the need to acquire themselves land to enhance their businesses.
The project will have a police station, hospital, school, sanitation facilities, a bank, conference and dining halls and lorry parks when completed according to Mr. Osei Yaw.
He appealed for financial assistance from the government, financial and corporate institutions to enable them complete the project on time.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, who was at the event commended the leadership of the association and added that the project touched on the core of the government’s policy of developing indigenous industries as a tool for wealth creation and development.
He also commended the association for their proactive efforts in purchasing land to establish a better workspace, independent of the government or external support.
Mr. Osei Mensah pledged the government’s willing to provide necessary materials for a successful settlement, emphasising that the association’s growth will enable training and employment opportunities for more youth, thereby reducing unemployment rates.
He urged other furniture makers in the region to form an association so that they can be supported when the need arises, stating, “it is possible and easier for the government to support groups than individuals when it comes to giving out loans and other incentives.”
Concluding, the minister underscored the need for peace and fairness in the upcoming election, urging the youth to avoid conflict-generating activities.
FROM David Afum, Kumasi