In a significant boost to youth empowerment and vocational development, a total of 700 sewing machines have been distributed to hundreds of apprentices in the Nkoranza South Constituency of the Bono East Region.
The donation, made on behalf of the Member of Parliament for the area, was carried out by the Municipal Chief Executive of Nkoranza, Godfred Dapaah, under the SOMPA Training Program—an initiative spearheaded by the MP to equip young people with free vocational skills.
A Pathway to Self-Reliance
The items are intended to equip individuals who have successfully completed the free training program, enabling them to establish their own sewing businesses and potentially employ others in their communities.
The initiative is seen as a strategic investment in the socio-economic development of the constituency, moving beneficiaries from apprenticeship to entrepreneurship.
MCE Highlights Government’s Commitment to Youth Empowerment
Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Municipal Chief Executive for Nkoranza South, Godfred Dapaah, emphasized that the donation reflects the government’s dedication to empowering the youth and reducing unemployment in the area.
“This initiative is not just about giving out machines; it is about giving hope and creating opportunities for our young people to become self-reliant,” Mr. Dapaah said. “The MP and the government are committed to ensuring that the youth of Nkoranza South have the tools they need to succeed. I urge all beneficiaries to take good care of these machines and use them to build successful businesses.”
He further noted that the SOMPA Training Program is a testament to the government’s focus on skills development as a driver of economic growth.
Traditional Council Commends MP
Speaking on behalf of Nananom, the Krontihene of the Nkoranza Traditional Council, Nana Akwasi Agyei, praised the MP for contributing to the socio-economic development of the area.
He urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the machines given to them, emphasizing that the equipment represents an opportunity to build sustainable livelihoods.
“The MP is doing a great job contributing to the socioeconomic development of our area,” Nana Akwasi Agyei said. “To the beneficiaries, these machines are your future—make good use of them.”
Regional Minister Charges Beneficiaries to Be Hardworking
The Bono East Regional Minister, who was represented at the event by the NDC’s Regional Political Coordinator, Prince Opoku Mensah, also addressed the gathering.
Speaking on behalf of the Regional Minister, Mr. Opoku Mensah commended the MP for the initiative and charged the participants to be hardworking and dedicated as they begin their entrepreneurial journeys.
“The Regional Minister sends his warm regards and appreciation to the MP for this wonderful initiative,” he said. “But he also wants to remind you that receiving these items is only the beginning. You must be hardworking, disciplined, and committed to your craft. Success does not come overnight—it comes through dedication and perseverance.”
He further encouraged the beneficiaries to see themselves as job creators rather than job seekers, noting that with the right attitude, they could grow their businesses and employ others in their communities.
Beneficiaries Express Gratitude
Some of the beneficiaries expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the legislator for the gesture, noting that the support will go a long way in helping them establish their sewing businesses.
For many of the young artisans, purchasing a sewing machine after completing their apprenticeship had seemed an impossible dream. The donation has now lifted that burden, giving them a head start in their entrepreneurial journey.
“I am so happy. I didn’t know how I was going to start my sewing business. This support will go a long way. We are very thankful to the MP,” one beneficiary said.
About the SOMPA Training Program
The SOMPA Training Program is an initiative by the MP aimed at providing free vocational training to the youth in Nkoranza South. The program focuses on equipping beneficiaries with practical skills that enable them to become self-employed and contribute to the local economy.
With 700 machines now in the hands of skilled artisans, the Nkoranza South Constituency is witnessing not just a donation—but the birth of hundreds of new businesses set to stitch together a brighter economic future.