Alhaji Seidu Agongo
Businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Seidu Agongo, is set to distribute 10,000 free sewing machines to women and vulnerable youth across the country as part of a major empowerment initiative.
The nationwide programme, being implemented in partnership with the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), is aimed at equipping beneficiaries with employable skills, promoting entrepreneurship and improving livelihoods.
The initiative is expected to support beneficiaries seeking to start or expand careers in dressmaking, tailoring and other segments of the garment industry.
Announcing the initiative, Alhaji Agongo said the project was inspired by his extensive travels across the country, during which he witnessed the difficult living conditions faced by many underprivileged families.
“Across our country, I have seen at first hand the struggles of many young people and families. Many of them need only a little support to break free from poverty and build sustainable livelihoods,” he disclosed.
He said many young people and women remain trapped in poverty despite possessing the determination and potential to improve their circumstances if given the necessary support.
He noted that a significant number of the intended beneficiaries would include school dropouts, widows, orphans and other socially disadvantaged persons who face economic hardship and limited access to employment opportunities.
Alhaji Agongo said the fortunes of many disadvantaged Ghanaians could be transformed if more affluent and successful citizens extended a helping hand.
He stressed that the initiative is strictly non-partisan and has been designed with clear guidelines to ensure transparency, fairness and equal access for beneficiaries across the country.
Track record of philanthropy
The sewing machine initiative is the latest in a long list of philanthropic interventions undertaken by Alhaji Agongo, founder of the defunct Heritage Bank, who has earned a reputation for supporting vulnerable communities through education, healthcare and humanitarian assistance.
In July this year, he donated food items, clothing and other relief supplies valued at GH¢1.4 million to victims of the June 29, 2026 floods that affected several communities in Accra.
Over the years, he has made substantial contributions to Ghana’s health sector, including support for the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital through donations of medical equipment and infrastructural support.
His charitable activities have also extended to the construction and renovation of school buildings, sponsorship of education for underprivileged children through payment of school fees and provision of educational materials, as well as settling hospital bills for vulnerable patients.
“As a Muslim, my faith teaches me that service to mankind is service to Allah. Giving is not a choice but a duty,” he said, and added, “It is the humane thing to do, and I am privileged that I can afford to share.”
Alhaji Agongo said he hopes to use the distribution to create opportunities for thousands of women and young people to acquire livelihoods, build sustainable businesses, and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s economic development.
A Daily Guide Report