Govt will support private sector to create decent jobs — Trade Minister
The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to support the private sector to thrive, create decent jobs and boost local apparel manufacturing across the country.
She stressed that the country remained open and ready for business, and President John Dramani Mahama was fully committed to creating sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for the youth.
During a one-day working visit to Northshore Apparel Ghana Ltd in Savelugu, Northern Region, last Thursday, February 12, 2026, Mrs Ofosu-Adjare emphasised that the government would continue to implement policies and initiatives that strengthened the private sector as a key driver of economic growth.
The Trade Minister expressed her delight at the company’s voluntary pre-hire operator training programme, which was currently equipping nearly 2,000 participants with market-ready skills for permanent employment.
She commended the initiative as a strong example of private sector partnership in national development.
Accompanied by her Deputy Minister, Sampson Ahi, the Trade Minister encouraged the trainees to take full advantage of the opportunity, remain committed to their training, and work diligently to help sustain the company’s operations.
She further announced that in 2026, the government would support three additional private garment and textile companies to fully establish their operations.
“I am impressed with the activities here and the infrastructure, which includes an on-site clinic and crèche,” she stated, urging trainees to remain loyal and committed in appreciation of the investment being made in them.
Apparel manufacturing hub
The Chief Executive Officer of Northshore Apparel Ghana Ltd, Nurudeen Mohammed, stated that the company was developing Ghana’s first apparel manufacturing hub in the northern part of the country, designed to deliver ethical, efficient and globally competitive production for conscious fashion brands.
He explained that the new facility specialised in both knitted and woven garments, including T-shirts, polo shirts, fleece hoodies and children’s wear, among others.
Mr Mohammed described the investment as “a central pillar of a broader regeneration agenda aimed at tackling unemployment in northern Ghana, reducing internal migration, and boosting trade and export growth.”
He added that the Trade Minister’s visit underscored the government’s commitment to export-led industrialisation, value addition and green manufacturing.
Mr Mohammed also acknowledged the support of the company’s partners, including the Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM), and underscored the importance of mission-aligned capital in accelerating industrial transformation and competitiveness.
Phase One of the facility is 95 per cent complete and includes 50 fully installed sewing lines, a 50kWp solar power system and a 4,000-square-metre cutting and design facility.
