Ghana urged to invest in kente industry amid rising global demand

Amma Prempeh, a Ghanaian journalist and Kente Ambassador, is calling for increased investment in Ghana’s kente industry to meet rising global demand. She argues that recent international visibility—driven by high-profile events such as the wedding of Bozoma Saint John-Watson and Keely Watson in Ghana and an Akwasidae celebration led by King Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in Washington, D.C.—presents a critical economic opportunity.

Prempeh warns that current production capacity, particularly among weavers in Bonwire within the Ashanti Region, may be insufficient to handle large-scale international orders. She highlights several infrastructure needs, including access to affordable yarn, modern workshops, and improved equipment. To reduce dependence on imported materials and boost productivity, she is advocating for the establishment of a local yarn manufacturing factory and better working spaces through government and private sector support.