The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), Malik Basintale, has commissioned the “Make Fashion Inclusive” Training Hub in Kumasi, a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower persons with disabilities (PWDs) through sustainable skills in Ghana’s fashion industry.
Addressing dignitaries, partners, beneficiaries, and the media at the ceremony, Mr. Basintale described the occasion as a significant milestone that reflects a “bright and deep sense of purpose,” focused on extending opportunity, dignity, and economic empowerment to Ghanaians living with disabilities.
“This is not charity it is justice,” he declared. “Inclusion is not a favour to persons with disabilities. It is a right, and this program affirms their equal place in our society.”
Mr. Basintale extended his gratitude to his predecessor, Kofi Baah Agyepong, for laying the foundation for the initiative, stating that the vision for an inclusive Ghanaian workforce is now becoming a reality.
The project is a collaborative effort between the Youth Employment Agency and the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), under the broader vision of an “Inclusive Ghana.” Mr. Basintale emphasized that the initiative does more than create jobs; it redefines societal perceptions of disability and promotes systemic inclusion in national development.
He also acknowledged the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development for its continued investment in sustainable job creation in Ghana, especially for marginalized groups.
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The training hub will initially cater to 100 PWDs, equipping them with professional skills in fashion design, embroidery, beading, millinery, and wig-making. Beyond training, beneficiaries will also receive the tools and resources necessary to start their own businesses, allowing them to become employers and changemakers within their communities.
“The doors we open today are not just for training – they are doors to independence, creativity, and economic freedom,” Mr. Basintale declared.
He further announced plans for an upcoming program set to launch within three weeks, targeting over 300 more young persons with disabilities. Each participant will receive startup support valued at GHS 500,000 to begin backyard catfish farming operations.
Mr. Basintale emphasized that disability inclusion must be central to national policy and development strategies. He stressed YEA’s commitment to ensuring that its interventions are “intentionally designed to be inclusive and accessible,” removing systemic barriers that have long excluded PWDs from mainstream economic opportunities.
He cited the partnership with the Ghana National Association of Tailors and Dressmakers and the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations as critical to the success of the initiative. These organizations, he noted, represent the resilience, talent, and commitment of the disability community.
“Inclusion is not for the NDC or the NPP. It is not for people from the north or the south. Inclusion is for all of us. Only together can we build the Ghana we want,” he stated.
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In concluding his address, Mr. Basintale conveyed a message from H.E. John Dramani Mahama, the former President of Ghana, who reaffirmed his love and commitment to transforming the lives of PWDs.
“He says he cares for you. He loves you. And all his policies will ensure that persons with disabilities are empowered and transformed,” Mr. Basintale said.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Amoh Kamel, Municipal Chief Executive for the Asokwa Municipal Assembly, praised the initiative and welcomed the hub to Kumasi. He expressed optimism that the program would create sustainable livelihoods and reduce street begging among PWDs.
“This will not be a one-day wonder,” he said. “We are planting the seeds of a new generation of entrepreneurs. God bless us all.”
The commissioning of the Make Fashion Inclusive Training Hub marks a turning point in Ghana’s disability inclusion agenda. With strategic partnerships, sustainable training, and policy-backed support, the Youth Employment Agency hopes to lead a nationwide shift from exclusion to empowerment one stitch at a time.
Below are few pictures of the launch:
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/ Isaac Justice Bediako
