Yendi Youth Parliament challenged to establish smock market to boost local economy

Dr. Nathaniel Adams Jr. is the Chief Executive of the Rural Water Development Programme of the Church of Christ (RWDP-COC). He is also the Founder of the Northern College of Science and Technology. Recently, he called for a smock market to be established in Yendi.

He pointed out that no such market exists in the five northern regions. He challenged the Yendi Youth Parliament to take on this initiative.

At the inauguration of the Yendi Parliament, he emphasized smocks as traditional wear for Ghanaian men. "Today, smocks are recognized as official attire for Ghanaian men," he said. Presidents and Vice Presidents often wear them at traditional events.

Dr. Adams highlighted the growing recognition of smocks nationwide. He stressed the need for a center where people can find various types of smocks.

He noted that Chinese businesses print Ghanaian fabrics but have not entered the smock market yet. He urged Yendi residents to seize this opportunity.

Establishing a smock market would create jobs for youth and reduce migration to southern Ghana for work. It would also provide additional income streams, boosting the local economy.

Dr. Adams encouraged youth to collaborate with traditional authorities and other stakeholders on this project. To support this initiative, he donated GH₵20,000 to help get it started.

Yendi Municipal Coordinator Abdul Razak Yakah praised both the SOCO project and the National Youth Authority for creating the Yendi Youth Parliament.

He stated that this initiative will prepare youth for responsible roles in community and national development. Mr. Razak emphasized that President John Mahama's administration prioritizes youth empowerment.

He noted that the Youth Parliament serves as a platform for meaningful action, not just gatherings. A citation was presented to Dr. Nathaniel Adams Jr., recognizing his support for local youth initiatives.