The Akwamu Traditional Area welcomed a transformative addition as the Paramount Chief, Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III, inaugurated a $20-million local shoe manufacturing company. This groundbreaking endeavor, initiated by World Shoes Limited Ghana, seeks to revolutionize the production of footwear using ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) plastic materials.
World Shoes Limited Ghana, operating within the premises of Akosombo Textile Limited, has breathed new life into abandoned factory floors. Their ambitious goal is to produce five million pairs of EVA shoes annually, ranging from casual boat shoes to stylish brogues, smart loafers, and rugged hiking shoes.
One of the most significant aspects of this venture is its positive impact on the local job market. The factory, located in the Asuogyaman District of the Eastern Region, has already created 1,050 employment opportunities for the district’s residents. This innovative project stands as a testament to Ghana’s commitment to import substitution and self-reliance in the field of footwear.
The decision to repurpose the ATL factory floors for different businesses aligns with Akosombo Industries Company Limited’s strategic initiative. This company also manages ATL, and it aims to leverage the extensive infrastructure resources to counter the adverse effects of cheap textile imports on the Ghanaian market.
During the factory’s inauguration, the Omanhene of Akwamu expressed his gratitude to the founders of World Shoes, President and Founder Emmanuel Ohonme, and Co-owner Benjamin Kojo Taylor. He commended their investment in the local area and its potential to bring about positive change.
The paramount chief highlighted the far-reaching effects of this intervention, including employment, training opportunities, and economic activities, which would undoubtedly benefit the community. He stated, “This factory represents a beacon of progress and prosperity for our community, and embodies the spirit of our Akwamu Arising agenda.”
Odeneho Akoto III also emphasized that the economic progress spurred by the factory would unite the community in its mission to build a better and more prosperous Akwamuman. “More importantly, these shoes go beyond covering the feet and protecting against disease, they facilitate education, transformation, dignity, and empowerment, all very important weapons against poverty,” he declared.
Mr. Ohonme, the visionary behind this project, explained that the idea for the factory arose from their charitable work. Having donated millions of World Shoes to needy children globally through the Christian missionary, Samaritan’s Feet, and their partners, they recognized the need to establish a global brand with a broader impact.
The initiative exemplifies the potential of African innovation in driving economic development and global change. It offers the youth opportunities for employment and positions Ghana as a base to produce shoes for the local market, the sub-region, the African continent, and the world.
In a world where innovation and local empowerment continue to shape economies, the World Shoes Factory in Akosombo stands as a beacon of hope, uniting communities, providing opportunities, and contributing to sustainability.
Source: [Daily Graphic]
