Belinda Baidoo Calls for Financial Support to Revitalize Ghana's Fashion Industry

Belinda Baidoo, an internationally recognized fashion model and Creative Director of BB Boutique, has called on both the government and private investors to provide financial support to Ghana’s fashion industry, which she believes has immense potential but remains hindered by a lack of resources and attention. Despite its rapid growth, the fashion sector is being stifled by inadequate funding, preventing it from reaching its full potential and gaining international recognition.

In an exclusive interview with Graphic Showbiz, Ms. Baidoo stressed the vital role the fashion industry can play in economic development. She emphasized that the fashion value chain, from the production of raw materials to retail, could have a significant economic impact if properly supported. She highlighted the sector’s potential for job creation and revenue generation, making it a key contributor to Ghana’s overall growth.

“The fashion industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Ghana, yet it continues to be overlooked. This sector can provide employment and contribute significantly to the country’s economy, but it requires the right level of attention and support,” she explained. Baidoo further pointed out that the absence of adequate financial support from both the government and private stakeholders has contributed to the stagnation of the industry.

Having worked with global brands like Nike, Victoria’s Secret, Giorgio Armani, and Guinness, Baidoo has seen firsthand how the fashion industry can thrive with the right resources. She pointed out that the local fashion sector, which relies heavily on small businesses and local manufacturers, is currently suffering from a lack of financial backing and has little support from the state. She called for immediate action to ease the financial burden on local manufacturers, designers, and retailers, urging the government to reconsider its taxation policies and reduce the taxes imposed on fashion imports.

“We need funds. The government needs to inject more capital into the fashion industry. We often overlook what some of us have dedicated our entire lives to. The women at Makola, the local manufacturers, and the entrepreneurs working hard to grow their businesses—they need assistance,” Baidoo said.

She also pointed out that the fashion industry in Ghana is not just about high-end retail stores but also about supporting local players in areas like Makola Market, where many smaller fashion businesses operate. Baidoo emphasized the importance of ensuring that these local businesses, which contribute significantly to the country’s economy, are given the support they need to grow. She believes that by focusing on these local businesses, the country can create a more sustainable and thriving fashion sector that will have both domestic and global impact.

“When tourists visit Ghana, they often shop in local markets, not just fancy retail stores. This shows the importance of supporting local businesses that cater to everyday consumers. Supporting these businesses is essential if we want our fashion industry to grow and be recognized internationally, just like industries in other parts of the world,” she said.

Baidoo’s call for action also extends to private investors, who she believes can play a key role in helping the industry grow. She pointed out that private investment in the sector could result in job creation, increased revenue, and international recognition, which would benefit the country as a whole. She urged private investors to see the potential in Ghana’s fashion industry and make the necessary investments to help it flourish.

A thriving fashion industry, according to Baidoo, would create more opportunities for local businesses and workers while also enhancing the country’s global standing in the fashion world. By supporting the sector, she believes the government and private investors could help establish Ghana as a leading fashion hub in Africa and beyond.

Baidoo’s appeal is a powerful reminder of the untapped potential within Ghana’s fashion industry. With the right investments and support, the industry can grow into a significant contributor to the country’s economy, providing jobs and boosting the nation’s profile on the global fashion stage.