Deficiencies and Decline of Daboya Local Dyeing Industry in Ghana

Abstract

The deficiencies facing the local dyeing industry reflect significantly on productivity and the causes are multi-faceted, but the key ones include poor material quality as a consequence of bad smell and lack of wash fastness and sustainability of new fabrics. Daboya local dyeing industry, a cultural identity and a means of livelihood for the majority of the indigenes in North Gonja District, in the northern region of Ghana was therefore investigated with the prime objective to identify the dwindling fortunes, challenges and the deficiencies facing the industry. Relevant data for the study were collected through field research, questionnaire administration, individual and group interviews, and secondary sources. A total of 50 dyers from Daboya craft village was randomly selected using the simple random sampling method. The results of the study indicate that the industry is confronted with a number of challenges, including lack of technical know-how, lack of adequate training, insufficient raw materials, low consumer patronage, availability of coloured synthetic yarns and lack of financial support as the major setbacks of Daboya local dyeing industry. Systematic investigation into the methodologies adapted revealed an old-fashioned and tedious practice that resulted in poor outcome and limited varieties of their products. Additionally, the introduction of indigo plantations will ensure an all year round supply of raw material to curtail the use of synthetic dyes in their operations and the provision of loan facilities will also help boost the local dyeing industry to resolve these deficiencies.