By Muyid Deen Suleman, GNA
Kumasi, Feb. 08, GNA – The National Association of Muslim Garment Designers (NAMGD) has extended financial and logistical support to 120 of its members, distributing equipment and cash assistance valued at approximately GH¢80,000.
The beneficiaries received a comprehensive support package comprising industrial sewing machines, essential sewing materials, and cash donations ranging from GH¢500 to GH¢2,000.
As part of the initiative, the association procured 20 industrial sewing machines and distributed them to selected members on a credit basis.
Members who received the machines are expected to repay a total amount of GH¢4,000 through flexible installment arrangements.
Beneficiaries were selected based on their commitment to the association, particularly their consistency in meeting financial obligations, as well as their demonstrated need for support to expand or stabilise their businesses.
Alhaji Aminu Abubakar Chiroma, the Chairman of NAMGD, speaking at the presentation ceremony, said the leadership remained deeply committed to the welfare of members across the country, stressing that their well-being was a top priority.
He noted that since assuming office two years ago, the leadership had worked deliberately to reconnect with members, promote regular participation in meetings, and encourage the timely payment of dues.
He said it was important for members to see their contributions translated into tangible benefits and meaningful activities within the association.
Alhaji Chiroma also appealed to the government for support, citing the association’s growing membership of over 200.
He called for assistance in the form of additional industrial sewing machines and related resources to strengthen members’ operations.
He recalled that while the government had previously supported the association through apprenticeship programmes under the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), including the payment of monthly stipends to apprentices, the needs of the master craftsmen who train them had largely been overlooked.
He therefore urged the government to extend its support to these master craftsmen, describing them as critical to skills development and the effective training of apprentices within the garment-making sector.
GNA
Edited by Yussif Ibrahim/ Christabel Addo
