Fashion design as a tool for socio-cultural and economic development of Ghana- the case of Upper Manya Krobo District

Abstract

The fashion industry remains a vital component influencing countries Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and economic growth. Fashion has financial and social or emotional rewards. The study sought to assess fashion design as a tool for socio-cultural and economic development of Upper Manya Krobo District in Ghana. The study was descriptive in nature. Questionnaires were used to solicit for data from 260 fashion designers, tailors and dressmakers and 35 District Assembly officials from 13 major towns in Upper Manya Krobo District. The study revealed that the fashion design industry has helped increased the district assembly’s revenue through taxes and utility bills, created jobs, reduced unemployment rate, raised the standard of living for fashion designer and their families, and increased demand for raw materials for fashion products in the community. The socio-cultural benefits of fashion design include enhancement of celebration of festivals, decoration people for celebration of life events like outdooring, marriage; helps preserve Ghanaian fashion, culture and traditions; enhancement of one’s beauty and outlook; and also helps correct indecent dressing and moral degradation among the youth. Fashion design can be improved in Upper Manya Krobo District by enhancing access to capital and credit facilities; increasing patronage for fashion products; reduction of income taxes, utility bills and rent; opening up the local market to international market; and training and educational support to improve fashion knowledge and skills, construction techniques for sewing, and skill to create and make personal innovations.