Hajia Samira Bawumia, the wife of Ghana’s Vice President, has initiated a “Wear Ghana Everyday” campaign aimed at boosting the adoption of locally-made fabrics.
At the launch of this year’s “Wear Ghana Festival” in Accra, Mrs. Bawumia, known for her stunning and unique Ghanaian designs, advocated for a greater embrace of locally produced textiles and designs. She emphasized that every day should be a celebration of Ghanaian culture, not just Fridays, stating, “Let us infuse our daily lives with the vibrancy of our culture. Whether in the office, at school, or during leisure. Our clothing is a canvas that tells the story of our nation.”
She urged employers to permit their staff to wear Ghanaian-made clothing every day as a means to express patriotism and contribute to Ghana’s economic growth. “Let us create a workplace culture that celebrates our identity,” she added.
The event, organized by the National Commission on Culture in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the Ghana Tourism Authority, aims to promote national identity and encourage the use of local fabrics.
During the festival, Mrs. Bawumia was honored with a citation from the Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association and the Ghana Association of Beauticians and Hairdressers for her exceptional contribution to the fashion industry. They noted significant growth in the industry since 2017, with Ghana’s export revenues from fashion reaching approximately $43 million in 2020.
The Queenmothers’ Foundation, led by Nana Serwaa Bonsu, Queenmother of Offinso-Kayera, bestowed upon the Second Lady the title of “Dwabisohemaa Adwoa Adepa” in recognition of her role in promoting Ghanaian culture through fashion. Nana Serwa Bonsu highlighted the increased patronage of Ghanaian Kente and local prints since Mrs. Bawumia assumed office in 2017.