A member of the Ghana Smock Makers Association based in Tamale, Mr Tahiru Fabulous, has revealed that sales have increased astronomically following the declaration of Wednesday as National Smock Day.
Speaking in an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, he disclosed that the surge in demand has led to a market shortage, causing a marginal increase in prices.
He noted that the upward trend in sales gained significant momentum after President John Dramani Mahama’s visit to Zambia, which sparked the widespread “fugu saga”.
According to Mr Fabulous, this specific incident has brought remarkable growth to their trade.
“The smocks are actually short in town, and that is actually forcing the price up a bit, but not too much. The demand is extremely high,” he stated.
He expressed his gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and then-Deputy Minister for Education (formerly at the Foreign Affairs Ministry) Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for their contributions toward boosting the smock-making industry.
He also extended his appreciation to the general public for their patronage.
“Ghanaians are actually buying the smocks. We extend our gratitude once again to the people for their support,” he added.
Regarding current market rates, he indicated that wholesale prices generally range between GH₵350 and GH₵450.
Mr Fabulous reiterated the readiness of the Smock Makers Association to scale up production if provided with the necessary support.
He further emphasised that the association is prepared to participate in international tours and trade exhibitions to showcase their craft on a global stage.
“We are appealing to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support us to embark on international exhibitions in other countries, just as it was done in Zambia,” he concluded.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
