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A spare parts dealer at the Techiman Magazine, Nathaniel Coffie Amanquah, popularly known as Borga Nat Coffie, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to collaborate with traditional leaders, especially those in Techiman and the Bono East region to secure a permanent, well-planned industrial zone for artisans in the country.
His appeal comes on the heels of the launch of the government’s Adwumawura Program, which seeks to tackle youth unemployment and promote entrepreneurship across Ghana.
H.E John Dramani Mahama launched the Adwumawura Program on Monday, April 28, 2025, describing it as a flagship initiative that will mentor and support at least 10,000 businesses annually, with a special focus on empowering youth between the ages of 18 and 35. Beneficiaries of the program will receive hands-on skills training, mentorship, start-up capital, and equipment to help them launch and sustain businesses.
However, Mr. Amanquah explained that without permanent and secure land for artisans, many young graduates may find themselves with no space to put their training into practice. He commended both the previous and current governments for their vision to combat unemployment through skills training but insisted that without permanent and secure land, the government’s initiative would be fruitless.
“Both the previous government led by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the current administration under H.E. John Dramani Mahama have demonstrated commendable intentions towards artisan training in the country,
“The former President introduced TVET, and the current President has taken it further by introducing a free apprenticeship program (Adwumawura Program) that even provides meals for apprentices.
“These initiatives are laudable. However, a critical question remains: after these learners complete their TVET or apprenticeship training, where will they practice their trade? As it stands, the Techiman Magazine is overcrowded, and this is the case for almost all garages across the country.” He said.
Borga Nat Coffie further explained the dire conditions artisans and dealers like himself face, particularly when it rains. According to to him, the insecurity over land tenure discourages any long-term investment.
“Our biggest challenge is the land we operate on. When it rains, work comes to a halt because all our structures are makeshift and temporary. This makes it extremely difficult for us to operate under harsh weather conditions.”
“Furthermore, the land we currently use has not been allocated to us permanently it is a temporary arrangement, meaning it can be taken away at any time. Because of this uncertainty, no one is willing to invest in permanent structures for fear of losing their investment if the land is reclaimed.”
With Techiman undergoing rapid urban development, He stressed the urgency of establishing a designated industrial area that will be permanently allocated to artisans and spare parts dealers.
Nathaniel Coffie Amanquah appealed to the government to take urgent action in liaising with traditional leaders to secure permanent land for artisans, ensuring the success of the Adwumawura Program.
“Considering the rapid development of Techiman, it is time for the town to have a designated industrial area. This area should be allocated permanently to artisans and properly planned to accommodate garages and workshops.
“I appeal to the government to liaise with our traditional authorities to secure a large tract of land to be permanently designated for artisans. This would ensure that those being trained under the free apprenticeship program, as well as TVET graduates, will have a proper place to work and contribute meaningfully to national development.” He stated.
As the Adwumawura Programme begins to roll out, many in Techiman believe that pairing training with infrastructure will be essential for creating lasting opportunities for Ghana’s youth.
Contact Borga Nat Coffie: 0245513511
Source: Elvisanokyenews.net
