Browsing by Author "Howard Ebenezer Kofi"

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Aligning Ghana’s Apparel Industry with Global Best Practices: A Critical Assessment of Sourcing, Production, and Distribution Operations
(2025-05-29) Siaw Stella Daah; Howard Ebenezer Kofi; Asinyo Benjamin Kwablah; Appiah Ninette Afi
This study examines how Ghana’s apparel manufacturing sector aligns with international best practices in sourcing, production, and distribution. Recognizing the transformative potential of the industry within the context of policy frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the study explores the operational, technological, and sustainability dimensions that define competitiveness in the global apparel value chain. Using a quantitative descriptive design, data were collected from 317 industry professionals across major industrial hubs in Ghana. The findings indicate a moderate adoption of sustainable sourcing practices, including traceability and ethical procurement, though supplier development and compliance monitoring remain underdeveloped. Quality control and ethical labour standards are prioritized in production, yet gaps persist in automation, lean manufacturing, and technological integration. Distribution practices reflect a strong interest in timely delivery and sustainable packaging but reveal limited implementation of data-driven logistics, e-commerce, and advanced digital tools such as RFID and predictive analytics. The study identifies critical challenges ranging from infrastructural limitations and technological constraints to workforce skill gaps that hinder the sector’s complete alignment with global standards. Policy implications include the need for targeted support in automation, digital transformation, and vocational training, alongside stronger regulatory frameworks for sustainability and labour practices. While the sector shows promising alignment in certain areas, comprehensive adoption of best practices is essential for positioning Ghana as a competitive apparel hub. The study contributes to broader discussions on industrial upgrading in Sub-Saharan Africa and provides strategic insights for enhancing the global integration and sustainability of localized apparel manufacturing
Compliance with Global Best Practices by Garment Producers in Ghana
(2025-07-23) Siaw Stella Daah; Howard Ebenezer Kofi; Appiah Ninette Afi; Chichi Cynthia Akua; Asinyo Benjamin Kwablah
Purpose: This study investigates the level of compliance with global best practices among garment producers in Ghana, with a specific focus on sourcing compliance, production compliance, and distribution compliance. It covers aspects such as labour ethics, environmental stewardship, product quality, and adherence to international trade standards. Methodology/Design: A cross-sectional survey design was employed, using a structured questionnaire administered to 317 garment manufacturing firms across Accra, Tamale, and Kumasi. Compliance was assessed across sourcing, production, and distribution domains using Likert-scale items adapted from international benchmarks such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions, ISO certifications, and the Higgs Index. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse patterns and gaps in compliance practices, including mean scores and standard deviations. Findings :The study revealed moderate to low overall compliance, with mean scores. While firms exhibited higher compliance in ethical labour practices, employee training, and quality assurance, substantial deficiencies were identified in environmental sustainability, automation, data-driven quality control, and adherence to international trade regulations. Notably, blockchain use, recycling initiatives, and lean manufacturing practices were poorly rated, indicating limited digital and ecological transformation across the sector. Practical and Social Implications :These findings underscore the pressing need for policy reforms, capacity building, and infrastructure enhancements to facilitate Ghana’s integration into ethical and sustainable global garment value chains. For policymakers, the results underscore the importance of embedding compliance support within national industrial strategies. For garment producers, the study offers a roadmap for targeted investment in technology, sustainability, and workforce development .Originality :This study contributes original empirical evidence on compliance with global best practices in Ghana’s garment sector, a topic that remains underexplored in West Africa. It offers a model for examining compliance dynamics in other emerging economies. Beyond its academic value, the study is policy-relevant, providing insights to inform national industrial strategies, regulatory frameworks, and export support programs that aim to enhance sustainability and competitiveness
Compliance with Global Best Practices by Garment Producers in Ghana
(2025-07-23) Siaw Stella Daah; Howard Ebenezer Kofi; Appiah Ninette Afi; Chichi Cynthia Akua; Asinyo Benjamin Kwablah
Purpose :This study investigates the level of compliance with global best practices among garment producers in Ghana, with a specific focus on sourcing compliance, production compliance, and distribution compliance. It covers aspects such as labour ethics, environmental stewardship, product quality, and adherence to international trade standards. Methodology/Design: A cross-sectional survey design was employed, using a structured questionnaire administered to 317 garment manufacturing firms across Accra, Tamale, and Kumasi. Compliance was assessed across sourcing, production, and distribution domains using Likert-scale items adapted from international benchmarks such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions, ISO certifications, and the Higgs Index. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse patterns and gaps in compliance practices, including mean scores and standard deviations. Findings :The study revealed moderate to low overall compliance, with mean scores. While firms exhibited higher compliance in ethical labour practices, employee training, and quality assurance, substantial deficiencies were identified in environmental sustainability, automation, data-driven quality control, and adherence to international trade regulations. Notably, blockchain use, recycling initiatives, and lean manufacturing practices were poorly rated, indicating limited digital and ecological transformation across the sector. Practical and Social Implications :These findings underscore the pressing need for policy reforms, capacity building, and infrastructure enhancements to facilitate Ghana’s integration into ethical and sustainable global garment value chains. For policymakers, the results underscore the importance of embedding compliance support within national industrial strategies. For garment producers, the study offers a roadmap for targeted investment in technology, sustainability, and workforce development. Originality: This study contributes original empirical evidence on compliance with global best practices in Ghana’s garment sector, a topic that remains underexplored in West Africa. It offers a model for examining compliance dynamics in other emerging economies. Beyond its academic value, the study is policy-relevant, providing insights to inform national industrial strategies, regulatory frameworks, and export support programs that aim to enhance sustainability and competitiveness